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SECTION B For this section, you will need to use the sources and interpretations in the Sources/Interpretations Booklet - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
SECTION B For this section, you will need to use the sources and interpretations in the Sources/Interpretations Booklet. (a) Study Sources B and C. How useful are ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:SECTION B For this section, you will need to use the sources and interpretations in the Sources/Interpretations Booklet - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
How useful are Sources B and C for an enquiry into the challenges facing the Bolsheviks in the years 1921–24?
Answer
Sources B and C provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by the Bolsheviks during this period. Source B details the unrest among sailors in the Kronstadt rebellion, highlighting the discontent within the Soviet ranks due to economic hardships and political repression. This demonstrates the growing opposition to Bolshevik policies and the urgency of their need to maintain control.
Source C reflects on the complications from War Communism, illustrating failures in addressing economic crises. Such context reveals how internal struggles affected the regime’s stability. By analyzing both sources, one can conclude that they are highly useful for understanding the multifaceted challenges the Bolsheviks encountered, offering perspectives on both popular dissent and economic failure.
Step 2
What is the main difference between these views?
Answer
The main difference between Interpretations 1 and 2 lies in their focus on the economic versus political challenges faced by the Bolsheviks. Interpretation 1 emphasizes the significant economic strains due to War Communism, arguing that these directly led to opposition and unrest. Conversely, Interpretation 2 concentrates on the political dimensions, suggesting that dissatisfaction was primarily rooted in the authoritarian measures taken by the Bolsheviks. This divergence illustrates the varying perspectives on what constituted the primary challenges for the regime at this time.
Step 3
How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about the challenges facing the Bolsheviks in the years 1921–24?
Answer
I largely agree with Interpretation 2, as it highlights the importance of political discontent exacerbated by Bolshevik authoritarianism in driving opposition. The tightening of political control alienated various groups, notably the sailors and peasants, who felt disenfranchised. However, it is essential to recognize that economic issues were also pivotal during this era. The economic failures under War Communism created a fertile ground for political dissent. Thus, while Interpretation 2 offers a valid viewpoint, a comprehensive understanding of the challenges requires a combined analysis of both economic and political factors.