Communism

Definition

Communism is a political and economic ideology that seeks to establish a classless society where the means of production are owned collectively, eliminating private ownership. This system promotes the idea of wealth distribution among all individuals, aiming to eradicate social classes and ensure equal access to resources. Its principles played a crucial role during the Cold War, influencing international relations and interventions in various regions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Communism gained prominence in the early 20th century, especially after the Russian Revolution in 1917, when the Bolshevik Party established a communist government.
2. The ideology was seen as a direct challenge to capitalism and led to significant tensions during the Cold War, where both superpowers engaged in various proxy wars to expand their influence.
3. Countries like Cuba, China, and Vietnam adopted communism, leading to U.S. interventions aimed at containing its spread, particularly in Latin America.
4. Communism's implementation often resulted in authoritarian regimes, as seen in the Soviet Union, where political dissent was suppressed to maintain state control.
5. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a significant turning point for communism globally, leading to a reevaluation of its principles and practices across many former communist states.

Review Questions

• How did the principles of communism influence international relations during the Cold War?
  • Communism significantly shaped international relations during the Cold War by creating a divide between capitalist and communist countries. The United States and its allies aimed to contain the spread of communism through various strategies, including military interventions, economic support for anti-communist regimes, and propaganda. This ideological battle led to numerous conflicts around the world, where nations aligned themselves either with the capitalist West or the communist East.
• What role did communism play in shaping U.S. foreign policy decisions during key Cold War events?
  • Communism heavily influenced U.S. foreign policy decisions throughout the Cold War. Events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis highlighted the intense rivalry between the superpowers and led to U.S. military interventions in countries like Vietnam to prevent communist expansion. Additionally, the policy of containment guided U.S. actions, aiming to stop communism from spreading further into Asia and Latin America, which resulted in significant military and financial commitments abroad.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of communism on societies that adopted it during the 20th century and how those impacts continue to resonate today.
  • The long-term impacts of communism on societies that adopted it have been profound and complex. Many countries experienced rapid industrialization and improvements in literacy rates under communist regimes; however, this often came at the cost of political freedoms and human rights abuses. The legacy of authoritarian governance has left lasting challenges in former communist states as they transition to market economies and democratic systems. Today, issues related to inequality, political repression, and economic instability continue to resonate in these regions, affecting their development and global relations.

Related terms

Marxism: A socio-political and economic theory developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels that advocates for the overthrow of capitalism through class struggle, leading to a society where property is communally owned.

Proletariat: The working class in capitalist societies who, according to Marxist theory, are exploited by the bourgeoisie and are essential in bringing about a revolution for a communist society.

Cold War:

A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, marked by ideological conflict between capitalism and communism, influencing global politics and military interventions.