2d ago

Good source of how federation in the Soviet Union worked?

I’d like to further my understanding about how the Soviet Union was structured from the lowest level in basic union organization to the highest levels of government.

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The Soviet system of government by John N. Hazard is a decent read that gives you a pretty good idea of the general structure of the USSR. Lots of charts and things. Keep in mind though that it's a US textbook so it's got the typical brainworms that you're gonna roll your eyes at. A lot of, "Sure the numbers look good or as far as the data shows the system worked but according to this guy I know, who goes to a different school you don't know him, abuse was rampant."
Which time period are you more interested in?
- Probably would say I’ll more interested in how it was structured post ww2
  
  Human Rights in the Soviet Union by Albert Szymanski touches a little bit on political organisation, though its mainly about social and economic rights. Workers' Participation in the Soviet Union by Mick Costello is specifically about workers. Theres also The CPSU in a Soviet Election Campaign, which is a short article on the party participation in elections.
  Between 1936 and 1977 is also the period of the "Stalin" constitution, so you can also read it to learn more about the system. I also always recommend Red Plenty by Francis Spufford, even though its historical fiction, because its so good at showing post-war USSR.

6 comments