Global Rise of Communism
Sources:
The global rise of communism was notably influenced by several key historical events and figures, and the impact of communism has had long-term institutional effects on countries that adopted it.
Key Points:
-
Russian Revolution's Impact: The Russian Revolution was pivotal for the spread of communism globally. The control the Bolsheviks had over industrial centers and rail networks in Russia made their victory over the White Army more probable, setting a precedent and providing support for communist movements elsewhere, including China 1.
-
Communism in China: The impact of communism has been profound in countries like China. The Chinese Cultural Revolution, orchestrated by Mao Zedong, involved psychological warfare that required victims to confess their guilt, creating internal divisions and breaking opposition. This approach was effective in demoralizing people and preventing organized resistance 2. Despite communism’s devastating effects, such as mass murders and economic mismanagement, Mao’s legacy is still respected in China today, partly due to state propaganda and the lack of a unifying belief system 3.
-
Economic Performance: Communism’s detrimental effects on economic institutional quality are evident, as seen in countries like China and North Korea. Garrett Jones remarks that communism traps countries in an "institutional cul de sac," hindering their prosperity. If the alternative sides had won civil wars in these countries, their economic situation would likely be much improved 4.
These insights underline the significant and lasting influence of communism initiated by the Russian Revolution and propagated through strategic and psychological means, deeply affecting countries like China and shaping their contemporary political and economic environments.
RELATED QUESTIONS-
