Modern History

Topic 2: National Study - Russia and the Soviet Union 1917-1941

Rationale:  The purpose of this topic is for students to develop an understanding of the history of Russia and the Soviet Union between the transformative years of 1917 up until 1941. During this unit, students will consider the ideologies and practices of Bolshevism and how this lead to significant political, economic, social and cultural change through the formation of the Soviet Union. Furthermore, students will also consider the role of Stalin as a totalitarian leader and evaluate the effectiveness of Soviet internal and foreign policy under his rule. This unit is highly relevant in contextualising Vladimir Putin’s current leadership today and the legacy of communism in Russia.