Russian History: From Tsars to USSR

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the political system that was in place in Russia before 1917?

An absolute monarchy ruled by powerful Tsars (correct)

A constitutional monarchy with limited powers for the Tsar

A parliamentary democracy with a multi-party system

A republic with elected officials and a strong bureaucracy

What was the main method used by the Communist Party to select leaders within the party structure?

Through a random lottery of party members who had demonstrated loyalty

Direct popular election by the citizens of the USSR

A system of meritocratic advancement based on test scores

Nomenklatura, a process of party members promoting recruits from lower levels (correct)

What was the primary goal of the Five-Year Plans implemented by the USSR?

To transition the economy to a market-based system

To increase imports of consumer goods from Western countries

To promote agricultural production by increasing private ownership of land

To boost the Soviet economy by focusing on heavy industries such as oil and steel (correct)

Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms included all of the following EXCEPT:

Collectivization, that further increased state's control over agricultural land (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is defined by Russia having regions with varying levels of sovereignty?

Asymmetric Federalism (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of Gorbachev's policy of Glasnost?

It facilitated more open discussions, but also opened the door for revolt by some republics. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was a key feature of the Soviet Union's economic policy, besides industrialization?

The abolition of all private land ownership and creation of state-run collective farms (D) Signup and view all the answers

How many subnational units (regions) does Russia contain, according to the provided text?

85 (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason given for the Russian government's increased reliance on state-owned corporations?

To ensure the control of the oil and natural gas industries, which are critical to the Russian economy. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Identify the prominent military concern motivating the Russian government's actions regarding Ukraine and its natural gas reserves.

Ukraine's potential to become a major source of natural gas for Europe, thus reducing Russia's influence. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the Russian government's regulation of media limit press freedom?

Requiring journalists to obtain government licenses and adhere to specific reporting guidelines. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor contributing to the historical weakness of the Russian Military despite its large size?

A decline in the quality of training and equipment due to budgetary constraints. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the key objective of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) as outlined by the Russian government?

To promote economic cooperation and integration among former Soviet Republics. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the dominant religious group in Russia, according to the provided information?

Russian Orthodox Christianity (A) Signup and view all the answers

What type of government system can be identified in Chechnya based on the provided information?

Authoritarian (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary justification given by the Russian government for its annexation of Crimea in 2014?

To protect Russian interests in the region and secure access to the Black Sea. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these institutions is not directly influenced by the Russian government?

Freedom House (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason behind Russia's motivation to conquer countries with access to warm water ports, according to the provided information?

To establish naval bases and project military power. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Russian Media system?

Strong tradition of independent journalism (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for the drop in religious affiliation among Russians during the 20th century?

The persecution of religious practices during the Soviet period. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose behind Putin's promotion of the Russian Orthodox Church?

To strengthen national identity and support traditional values. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why ethnic cleavages in Russia often coincide with regional differences?

The concentration of specific ethnic groups in particular geographic regions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the key reason for the rise of the Russian Military's importance following the invasion of Ukraine?

The need to project Russian power and influence on the international stage. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Federation Council in Russia's legislative branch?

To approve budget legislation, treaties, judicial nominees, and troop deployment. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How often are the State Council sessions held in Russia?

Four times a year (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the original classification of the Russian Federation's government when it formed in 1991?

Democratic Regime (B) Signup and view all the answers

In Russia, who appoints the Prime Minister?

The President (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which individual holds the title of head of state in Russia?

The President (D) Signup and view all the answers

What action can the Russian President take regarding the Duma?

Dissolve the Duma and call for new legislative elections (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is required for the Duma to successfully impeach the President of Russia?

A 2/3 majority vote among the deputies (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism through which the Prime Minister can be removed?

Two repeat votes of no confidence within 3 months. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of the Security Council in Russia?

National security affairs (B) Signup and view all the answers

In Russia's semi-presidential system, what does it mean when the President is chosen by popular election?

The President is directly elected by the people. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a power of the Russian President?

Proposing legislation to parliament (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the term length for the Russian president once elected?

6 years (D) Signup and view all the answers

Who supervises ministries in the Russian government?

The Prime Minister (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements best describes Russia’s current political regime?

A hybrid regime that leans toward authoritarianism. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Russian President do that can carry the force of law?

Issue decrees (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main reason for the extension of economic sanctions against Russia in 2014?

The annexation of Ukraine (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which countries did NATO deploy troops to in April 2016 to deter further Russian actions?

Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?

To secure financial stability and reduce poverty (A) Signup and view all the answers

What action did Alexi Navalny take upon his return to Russia in 2021?

He was jailed for his anti-government stance (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was Project Lakhta primarily aimed at during the 2016 Presidential Election?

To interfere in the electoral process (C) Signup and view all the answers

What method did the Internet Research Agency use to influence public opinion during the 2016 election?

Creating fake social media accounts (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of activism was the Russian band Pussy Riot known for?

Protesting against President Putin (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which organization is NOT mentioned as one of the institutions Russia is a member of?

World Health Organization (WHO) (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the method of electing members to the Russian Duma?

Members are partially elected through party-list elections and partially through plurality winner elections in single-member districts. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Russian Federation Council have in the country's political system?

It is a weaker upper chamber, representing regional governments, and approves actions like judicial nominees and troop deployments. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Russian judiciary considered not to be independent?

The government uses the courts to target political opponents, and the power of judicial review is not used to limit government authority. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best characterizes the concept of 'rule of law' in Russia, as described in the text?

The 'rule of law' exists on paper but is largely obstructed by corruption and an unindependent judiciary. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of United Russia in the Russian political system?

It is the primary ruling party, which supports the policies and practices of President Putin. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the ideological stance of the United Russia party?

It is a centrist, conservative, and pragmatic party that opposes radicalism. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the minor political parties, such as the Communist Party and the Liberal Democratic Party, in Russia?

While they represent differing ideologies, they are allowed to compete in elections because are unlikely to win. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Who are the Russian Oligarchs and what is their role in politics?

They are wealthy individuals who have gained power over the course of time, and are believed to have a significant influence on government. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the state of civil society in Russia?

It is restricted by the government through various means such as tax codes, registration processes, and police harassment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What types of organizations are youth groups like 'Nashi'?

They are government-organized non-governmental organizations aimed at fostering youth loyalty to the government. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Russia's 'rule by law' method?

To maintain control through the use of laws and regulations without necessarily upholding their spirit. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How are judges in Russia nominated and approved?

They are nominated by the President and approved by the Federation Council. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used for the system where many insiders purchased state-owned industries for almost nothing in Russia?

Nomenklatura system. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary obstacle that prevents the proper application of the 'Rule of Law' in Russia?

The widespread corruption that affects all layers of government. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method used in Russia to control those who organize in opposition to the government?

Arresting them for white-collar crimes or “illegal organizing/demonstrating”. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Russian History

Ruled by strong autocrats before 1917, including Tsars like Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, and Catherine the Great.
After the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, controlled by the Communist Party.
Key leaders: Vladimir Lenin (1917-1924), Joseph Stalin (1925-1953), Nikita Khrushchev (1953-1964), Leonid Brezhnev (1964-1984), Mikhail Gorbachev (1985-1991).
The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) established in 1922, centralizing Communist Party control.
No other political parties allowed to compete.
Communist Party leaders identified through the nomenklatura system.
Collectivization and Industrialization policies implemented, taking land from peasants and establishing state-run collective farms.
Private land ownership abolished.
USSR industrialized through Five-Year Plans, focusing on heavy industry.
Gorbachev's reforms (Glasnost, Democratization, Perestroika) led to the USSR's collapse in 1991 and the formation of the Russian Federation.

Russian Government

Types of Government

Asymmetric Federalism: Not all regions have equal sovereignty.
85 regions (with disputed regions like Crimea and Sevastopol).
21 regions with non-Russian ethnic majorities.
Power derived from the 1991 constitution, empowering an elected president and legislature (led by a prime minister).
Hybrid Regime: Evolved from a democratic regime to a more authoritarian one, particularly under Putin.
Putin's actions impacted regional autonomy, creating federal districts and changing regional governor elections.

Executive Branch

Semi-Presidential System: President elected, and appoints/removes the Prime Minister, who must be confirmed by the Duma.
President: Head of state, commander-in-chief, appoints ministers, conducts foreign policy, presides over Duma.
Prime Minister: Head of government, oversees civil service, proposes legislation upholding presidential goals, promulgates the budget.
Impeachment process for both President and Prime Minister exists, but is rarely utilized.
- Yeltsin was impeached, but failed to gain required votes.
- Yeltsin resigned unexpectedly.

Legislative Branch

Bicameral system: State Duma (lower house) and Federation Council (upper house).
Duma: Larger, more powerful, partially elected through party-list and district-specific elections. Passes legislation, approves budget, confirms presidential appointments.
Federation Council: Smaller, weaker house. Appointed by regional governments, approves budget, treaties, judicial nominees, and troop deployments.

Judicial Branch

Judicial system sometimes used to target opposition.
Judges nominated by president, approved by Federation Council.
Judiciary not independent due to government influence and corruption.
"Rule of law" exists in theory but is not applied, with rampant corruption.

Political Parties

Single-party dominant system: United Russia, the dominant ruling party, supporting Putin.
Founded by merging parties in 2001.
Centrist, conservative, pragmatic.
Other political minorities exist, though they face challenges in competing against United Russia. (Communist Party, LDPR, Yabloko, A Just Russia, Communist Party of Social Justice).

Interest groups, Media, Civil Society and Military

Interest Groups: Oligarchs, often controlling state-owned industries derived from privatization. Mafia groups.
Civil Society: Undeveloped, with significant government pressure and control. Tight restrictions on NGO activities, and challenges to organizing. Nationalism and Orthodox Christianity promoted.
Media: Mostly private but state-controlled. State-owned networks dominate pro-Kremlin coverage, restricting critical voices, with many journalists disappearing.
Military: #5 globally in troop strength. Universal male conscription for one year. Increased importance with invasion of Ukraine.

Cleavages

Religious: Predominantly Russian Orthodox, but many are non-religious or unaffiliated. Government promotion of Orthodox Christianity. Other religions present, including Islam in Chechnya.
Ethnic: 80% of population is Russian. 20% or more are other ethnic groups, though ethnicity closely tied with region and often religion. Chechnya and the Caucasus have significant Muslim populations.

Demographics

Population: 146 million (2021).
Largest country in the world by area (17,098,242 square miles).
Eleven time zones.
Cold climate, few warm water ports.
Mostly urban (73%).
Moscow largest city.

Economy

Upper-middle income mixed economy.
Fifth largest national economy in Europe, 11th largest nominal GDP, and 5th largest by purchasing power parity.
Considered a rentier state due to large oil and natural gas reserves.
Large portion of economy controlled by state-owned corporations. Gazprom, Yukos, VTB, Rosneft, Russian Technologies are examples of state-controlled industries.

Public Policy & Foreign Relations

Foreign Policy: Russia fallen from superpower status. Nuclear power but failing to reconcile with West. Eastward NATO expansion seen as a threat, with conflicts with Georgia. Seeking to rebuild influence.
Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU): Limits trade barriers among member states (Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan).
War with Ukraine: Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea in 2014, justifying their actions as protecting pro-Russian interests and port access. Sanctions followed.
Supranational Organizations: Member of UN, WTO, World Bank, and IMF.

Current Issues

Protesting Putin: Navalny's alleged poisoning, arrest, and anti-Putin protests. Activities by Pussy Riot.
Russian Interference in US Elections (2016): Project Lakhta; Internet Research Agency (IRA); Russian military intelligence hacking of DNC emails to promote Trump campaign.

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Description

Explore the significant events and figures in Russian history, focusing on the era of autocracy before 1917 and the subsequent rise of the Communist Party following the Bolshevik Revolution. This quiz covers key leaders, policies, and the impact of Gorbachev's reforms on the USSR's collapse and the establishment of the Russian Federation.