Russia Test Review Unit 2
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Questions and Answers

Which party is known for its socialist and anti-capitalist ideology?

  • New People
  • Communist Party of the Russian Federation (correct)
  • A Just Russia – For Truth
  • Liberal Democratic Party of Russia
  • What is a key feature of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia?

  • Promotion of social welfare programs
  • Advocacy for state control of industries
  • Focus on economic modernization
  • Inflammatory rhetoric and charismatic leadership (correct)
  • Which ideology does A Just Russia – For Truth primarily represent?

  • Libertarian reformism
  • Social democracy (correct)
  • Communist socialism
  • Far-right nationalism
  • Which party primarily appeals to younger, urban voters?

    <p>New People (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation's appeal?

    <p>Emphasis on state control of industries (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which historical factor contributed to the establishment of authoritarianism in Russia by promoting centralized rule?

    <p>The Mongol Invasion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did the Orthodox Church play in the context of Russian authoritarianism?

    <p>It supported the tsar as God’s representative. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Ivan the Terrible's rule contribute to the development of authoritarianism in Russia?

    <p>He created a personal police force to eliminate opposition. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did Russia's geography have on its governance?

    <p>It necessitated strong central control to manage vast territories. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors isolated Russia from European democratic developments?

    <p>The Mongol rule (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the outcomes of Ivan the Terrible's consolidation of power?

    <p>The destruction of institutions opposing his authority (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is least associated with the historical roots of authoritarianism in Russia?

    <p>Influence of Western democratic ideals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor did NOT contribute to the authoritarian governance in Russia?

    <p>The establishment of citizens' rights (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the major factors contributing to the size difference between the Soviet Union and present-day Russia?

    <p>The independence of the 15 republics after the Soviet Union collapsed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which leader is associated with the creation of the Soviet Union in 1922?

    <p>Vladimir Lenin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant outcome of Stalin's Great Purge?

    <p>Elimination of perceived enemies within the Communist Party (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action did Khrushchev take in response to Stalin's policies?

    <p>Initiated the de-Stalinization process (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika?

    <p>To reform the Soviet Union politically and economically (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes government involvement in civil society in the UK and Russia?

    <p>The UK encourages civil society while Russia is heavily involved. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event is directly linked to Gorbachev's policies leading to the fall of the Berlin Wall?

    <p>The liberalization of Eastern Bloc nations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did Stalin's Five-Year Plans have on the Soviet economy?

    <p>Focused on industrialization and heavy industry (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What electoral system is predominantly used in the UK?

    <p>First past the post (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the consequences of Gorbachev's failure to use military force in Eastern Europe?

    <p>Rapid independence movements in Eastern Bloc countries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the electoral system in Russia differ from that in the UK?

    <p>Russia has a mixed system with proportional representation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant result of Gorbachev’s Perestroika?

    <p>Confusion between centralized control and market mechanisms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relative power of the Prime Minister in Russia compared to the UK?

    <p>The Prime Minister in Russia wields significant control over the government. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which leader initiated the policy known as de-Stalinization?

    <p>Nikita Khrushchev (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is political socialization?

    <p>The development of individuals' political beliefs and behaviors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the political party system in the UK?

    <p>It is dominated by a two-party system. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of civil society, how does Russia's involvement compare to that of the UK?

    <p>The UK allows more freedom in civil society compared to Russia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component is crucial for understanding the formation of party systems in different electoral contexts?

    <p>Electoral rules and systems (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if no majority is obtained in the first election?

    <p>A run-off election occurs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are the seats in the State Duma filled?

    <p>Half by political parties and half by individual candidates. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who appoints the members of the Federation Council?

    <p>Regional governors and legislatures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism allows the Duma to call for a vote of no confidence?

    <p>Parliamentary oversight. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a check on presidential power by the Duma?

    <p>Direct election of the president. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change occurred in the Duma's influence over time?

    <p>Its ability to challenge the president has declined. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the ceremonial roles of the House of Lords in relation to legislation?

    <p>To propose amendments and delays. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the Duma exert control over the federal budget?

    <p>By directly setting the budget priorities of the government. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding regional and local elections?

    <p>Regions can either directly elect or appoint governors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can media and public opinion effectively serve as in the context of government oversight?

    <p>Informal checks on the executive. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which party has historically dominated the Duma, impacting legislative power?

    <p>United Russia. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the challenges to the Duma's legislative authority?

    <p>Centralization of power under the executive. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable action taken by the Duma against presidential authority during Yeltsin's presidency?

    <p>They attempted to impeach him over the Chechen War. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary factor that led to the fall of the Soviet Union?

    <p>Economic struggles and political reforms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Boris Yeltsin play after the failed coup in 1991?

    <p>He opposed the coup and became a key leader (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of government was established in Russia after the fall of the Soviet Union?

    <p>Managed democracy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which constitution emphasizes strong presidential powers in Russia?

    <p>1993 Constitution (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How was the Prime Minister of Russia appointed according to the 1993 Constitution?

    <p>Nominated by the President and approved by the State Duma (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What influence do the siloviki have in the Russian government?

    <p>They hold significant positions in security and intelligence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of the Federation Council in Russia?

    <p>Representing regional interests (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the judiciary is limited in practice despite constitutional establishment?

    <p>Judicial independence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Federal Security Service (FSB) in Russia?

    <p>Managing internal security and intelligence operations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which branch of the Russian government holds the most power as established by the 1993 Constitution?

    <p>Presidential Branch (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions can the President of Russia take without legislative approval?

    <p>Dissolve the State Duma (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key responsibilities of the State Duma?

    <p>Initiating votes of no confidence against the president (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant characteristic of managed democracy as seen in Russia?

    <p>Centralization of power under the president (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What structural feature characterizes Russia's legislative system?

    <p>Bicameral legislature with federal laws only (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Authoritarianism in Russia

    A form of government in Russia where power is concentrated in the hands of a single person or a small group, with limited political freedom and opposition.

    Historical Roots of Authoritarianism

    These are the historical events and circumstances that contributed to the development of authoritarianism in Russia.

    Orthodox Christianity's Influence

    The church supported the idea of the tsar as God's representative, strengthening centralized rule and discouraging challenges to authority.

    Mongol Invasion's Impact

    Mongol rule isolated Russia from Europe and introduced a model of hierarchical, centralized governance that Russian leaders later adopted.

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    Ivan the Terrible's Rule

    Ivan the Terrible consolidated power, destroyed institutions opposing his authority, created a personal police force, and established absolute control.

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    Geography's Role

    Russia's vast size required strong central control to manage and defend its territories.

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    Isolation from Europe's Influence

    Limited exposure to European ideas like democracy and individual rights during key European developments.

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    Soviet Union vs. Present-day Russia

    Compare the geographic boundaries and political systems of the Soviet Union and present-day Russia.

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    CPRF

    The Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF) is a political party that advocates for state control of key industries, social welfare programs, and promotes nostalgia for the Soviet Union.

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    LDPR

    The Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) is known for its nationalist and populist stance, often employing inflammatory rhetoric and strong leadership figures like Vladimir Zhirinovsky.

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    A Just Russia – For Truth

    A Just Russia – For Truth is a political party that combines social democratic ideals with patriotic messaging. They advocate for welfare policies and moderate opposition to the ruling United Russia party.

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    New People

    New People is a relatively new party that focuses on economic modernization, supporting small businesses and technological advancements. Their appeal lies in a modern approach to politics, aimed at younger, urban voters.

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    What is a 'loyal opposition' party?

    A 'loyal opposition' party is a political group that critiques the current government's policies and actions but ultimately supports the existing power structures. This type of party often serves as a counterbalance to the ruling power, providing an outlet for dissenting voices while maintaining the overall stability of the system.

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    Political Socialization

    The process where individuals develop their political beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors.

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    UK Government Involvement

    The UK government encourages and supports civil society, but it is largely free and independent.

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    Russian Government Involvement

    The Russian government heavily interferes in civil society, exercising significant control over it.

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    UK Electoral System

    The UK uses a first-past-the-post system, which is also called a single-member district system. This system encourages two dominant parties.

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    Russian Electoral System

    Russia has a mixed electoral system, combining aspects of single-member districts and proportional representation. This system allows for a greater number of parties represented.

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    UK Prime Minister's Power

    The UK Prime Minister holds a significant amount of power, as the head of both the government and the legislature.

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    Russian President's Power

    The Russian President holds the most power, even controlling the government's influence over civil society.

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    Role of Russian Authorities

    Russian authorities heavily influence the development of political beliefs and attitudes among citizens. This involves shaping public opinion and controlling access to information.

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    State Duma

    The lower house of the Russian Federal Assembly, responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government.

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    Federation Council

    The upper house of the Russian Federal Assembly, representing regional interests.

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    Majority Voting

    A voting system where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they get a majority.

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    Proportional Representation

    A voting system where the number of seats a party gets in parliament is proportional to the percentage of votes they receive.

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    Parliamentary Oversight

    The process of the legislature scrutinizing the executive branch to ensure accountability and good governance.

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    Vote of No Confidence

    A vote by the legislature to remove the government from power, usually triggered by a lack of support or public disapproval.

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    Judicial Review

    The power of the courts to review and invalidate laws or government actions that are inconsistent with the constitution or other laws.

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    Duma's Role in Limiting Presidential Power

    The Duma has mechanisms to limit presidential power via legislative oversight, budget control, and impeachment attempts.

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    Examples of Duma Checking Presidential Power

    The Duma has historically rejected presidential appointments, limited decrees, attempted impeachment, and exercised budget oversight.

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    Duma's Limitations on Presidential Power

    The Duma's ability to limit presidential power is constrained by the dominance of pro-presidential parties, centralization of power, and opposition-weakening strategies.

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    Duma's Influence Over Time

    While the Duma had more influence in the 1990s, its ability to challenge the president has significantly declined.

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    United Russia Party

    A pro-presidential party that has dominated the Duma, contributing to the decline of the Duma's check on presidential power.

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    Centralization of Power under Putin

    The concentration of power in the hands of the president, limiting the effectiveness of checks and balances.

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    Strategies Weakening Opposition Influence

    Tactics employed to limit the influence of parties and individuals opposed to the president.

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    Perestroika

    A policy introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s aimed at restructuring the Soviet economy and political system. It allowed for some economic reforms and greater transparency.

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    Glasnost

    A policy introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s aimed at promoting openness and transparency in the Soviet Union. It allowed for more freedom of speech and press.

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    Boris Yeltsin

    The President of the Russian Republic who opposed the 1991 coup attempt against the Soviet government. He became a key leader in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the first President of the Russian Federation.

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    What was the role of nationalism in the fall of the Soviet Union?

    Growing nationalism in the republics of the USSR, especially in the Baltic states, led to calls for independence and ultimately contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union. Each republic wanted its own identity and autonomy.

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    What happened during the 1991 coup attempt?

    Hardliners within the Soviet government attempted a coup in 1991 to seize control of the government and prevent further reforms. The coup failed, but it further destabilized the country and led to the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

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    Russian Government: Dominant-party system

    This term describes a system where one party holds the most power and influence, limiting the participation and representation of other political parties.

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    What was the 1993 Russian Constitution about?

    The 1993 Constitution of Russia established a strong presidential system with significant power concentrated in the hands of the President, giving them authority over the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

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    President's powers in the 1993 Russian Constitution

    The President of Russia has the power to appoint the Prime Minister, issue decrees with the force of law, dissolve the State Duma, and direct foreign and defense policies as the Commander-in-Chief.

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    Federal Assembly: State Duma

    The lower house of the Russian Federal Assembly, responsible for proposing and passing laws, approving the Prime Minister, and initiating votes of no confidence against the government.

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    Federal Assembly: Federation Council

    The upper house of the Russian Federal Assembly, representing regional interests, reviewing federal laws, ratifying military actions abroad, approving judicial appointments, and overseeing regional-federal relations.

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    Russian Judiciary

    The Russian judicial system includes the Constitutional Court, Supreme Court, and other federal courts with the power to review laws and executive actions for constitutional compliance.

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    What is the role of the Federal Security Service (FSB) in Russia?

    The FSB, successor to the KGB, is responsible for internal security, counterintelligence, and economic oversight. It is a powerful intelligence agency, but its actions can be controversial.

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    What is the role of the 'siloviki' in Russian politics?

    High-ranking officials with backgrounds in security, military, or intelligence services, collectively known as 'siloviki', hold significant influence in the Russian government.

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    What is the State Council in Russia?

    The State Council is an advisory body to the President, composed of regional leaders, senior officials, and experts. It advises the president but lacks any legislative power.

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    Role of the Prime Minister in Russian government

    The Prime Minister in Russia is nominated by the President and approved by the State Duma. They implement policy, but are subordinate to the President and lack independent authority.

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    What is the significance of the State Duma's votes of no confidence?

    While the State Duma can initiate votes of no confidence against the government, they are rarely successful due to the dominant position of the President and the system of checks and balances.

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    Soviet Union vs. Russia

    The Soviet Union was a much larger country than present-day Russia. It included 15 republics like Ukraine and the Baltic States, which became independent after its collapse in 1991. Russia is now a smaller country with only its current borders.

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    Vladimir Lenin's Role

    Vladimir Lenin played a key role in establishing the Soviet Union by uniting several republics under a single government. He also adapted Marxist theory to fit Russian conditions, creating Leninism.

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    Joseph Stalin's Industrialization

    Stalin implemented aggressive Five-Year Plans to rapidly industrialize the Soviet economy, focusing on heavy industry and infrastructure.

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    Stalin: The Great Purge

    Stalin's Great Purge targeted perceived enemies within the Communist Party by conducting mass arrests, executions, and sending people to labor camps.

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    Nikita Khrushchev's De-Stalinization

    Khrushchev relaxed political repression and censorship, releasing many political prisoners. He also oversaw important achievements in the Soviet space race.

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    Cuban Missile Crisis

    Khrushchev's placement of Soviet missiles in Cuba led to a tense confrontation with the United States.

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    Mikhail Gorbachev's Reforms

    Gorbachev implemented Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (transparency) to reform the Soviet Union politically, socially, and economically.

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    Fall of the Soviet Union

    Gorbachev's policies, especially Glasnost and Perestroika, weakened the Communist Party's control, leading to a collapse of the Soviet Union and the creation of independent republics.

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    Soviet Union's Dissolution

    The Soviet Union broke up in 1991, leading to the creation of independent republics like Ukraine and the Baltic States. Russia became a much smaller country.

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    Impact of Gorbachev's Policies

    Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika weakened the Communist Party's authority and led to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact.

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    Study Notes

    Unit 2: Russia Test Review Sheet

    • Format:
      • Multiple Choice Questions (15 questions, 1 point each)
      • Short Answer Questions
        • Role of Russian authorities in political socialization (6 points)
        • Comparison of House of Commons (UK) to the Duma (Russia) (9 points)
          • Functions
          • Electoral systems
          • Why the House of Commons is more effective than the Duma in limiting executive power

    Content

    • Review concepts to connect them.

      • Example: How civil society relates to democratization in Russia
      • Example: Comparison of Duma to the Federation Council
    • Topics and Questions to review in groups of three:

      • Define terms and concepts, including examples.
      • Use textbooks, notes, PowerPoint, and available resources.
      • Ensure information aligns with class materials.

    Group #1 (p. 363-376)

    • Historical Roots of Authoritarianism in Russia:
      • Orthodox Christianity: Supported the Tsar as a divine representative, discouraging challenges to authority.
      • Mongol Invasion: Introduced hierarchical governance, adopted by Russian leaders.
      • Ivan the Terrible's Rule: Consolidated power as Tsar, destroyed opposition, established absolute control.
      • Geography: Russia´s size needed strong central control for management and defense.
      • Isolation from Europe: Limited exposure to democratic ideals.

    Group #2 (p. 376-383)

    • Russia's Government Description:

      • Authoritarian
      • Centralized
      • Dominant-party system
      • Federal republic
      • Managed democracy
    • 1993 Constitution: Emphasizes strong presidential powers.

      • Presidential powers: Appoint PM, issue decrees, dissolve Duma, direct foreign and defense policies.
      • Legislative branch: Federal Assembly (State Duma and Federation Council).
      • Judicial independence: Constitution establishes an independent judiciary.

    Group #3 (p. 383-391)

    • Presidential Elections: First round, no majority = run-off election.
    • Duma Elections: Two types of elections:
      • Proportional representation
        • Voters vote for a political party; percentage of national vote determines seat allocation
      • Single-member constituencies
        • Voters select a specific candidate; candidate with the most votes wins

    Group #4 (p. 391-397)

    • Civil Society Restrictions:
      • Restrictive legislation (e.g. foreign agents law): Targets NGOs receiving foreign funding.
      • Harassment of activists and independent groups.
      • Control of public space with restrictions on protests.
      • Limited political opposition.

    Group #5 (p. 398-405)

    • Transition from Command to Market Economy:
      • Challenges: Creating new institutions, economic instability (unemployment, inflation), and resistance from populations.
    • Shock therapy: Rapid market reforms (price deregulation, trade liberalization, privatization).
      • Results: Hyperinflation, economic contraction, significant poverty.
    • Insider privatization: State-owned enterprises sold to managers and employees consolidating power.
    • Oligarchs: Powerful individuals who accumulated wealth in the 1990s through acquiring state assets.
    • Putin and oligarchs: Putin diminished oligarch influence, reasserted state control, rewarding loyalty.

    General Information

    • Political Socialization

      • The process of developing political values.
      • Key agents include family, education, peers, media, religion and culture.
      • Role of the Russian government in each category needs to be examined, especially given its significant influence (censorship, propaganda etc.)
    • House of Commons vs Duma:

      • Functions, electoral systems, and the effectiveness of the institutions in limiting the executive power need to be contrasted.

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    Description

    Prepare for your upcoming unit test on Russia with this comprehensive review sheet. Cover key topics such as political socialization, a comparison of the Duma and the House of Commons, and the role of civil society in democratization. Utilize your textbooks and class materials to strengthen your understanding and performance on the test.

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