IB History: Russian Revolution - Bolshevik Consolidation of Power Lesson

From the tumultuous period of 1917 to 1924, the Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, solidified their control over Russia. Lenin’s government, known as the Council of People’s Commissars, enacted sweeping reforms to assert authority and transform Russian society. This lesson plan delves into the Bolshevik strategies for consolidating power, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal historical period.

The Bolshevik Consolidation of Power lesson plan engages students with a blend of historical analysis and interactive activities. Through studying Lenin’s policies, such as land redistribution and the nationalisation of industry, students gain insights into the radical changes that reshaped Russian society. The lesson also explores the establishment of the CHEKA and the suppression of opposition, illustrating the lengths to which the Bolsheviks went to maintain control.

Students will benefit from various learning activities designed to deepen their understanding and foster critical thinking. By examining primary sources, such as the chilling account of the Constituent Assembly’s closure, students will analyse different perspectives and the impact of Bolshevik policies. Activities include writing letters as eyewitnesses to historical events and promoting empathy and engagement with the material.

The lesson plan also incorporates multimedia resources, such as the documentary on the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, to enhance visual learning and provide a broader context. Students will understand the significance of the treaty and its harsh terms, which led to widespread discontent but were seen by Lenin as a temporary measure to secure the revolution.

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to explain the key strategies used by the Bolsheviks to consolidate power and evaluate their effectiveness. They will discuss the social and economic changes brought about by policies like the New Economic Policy (NEP) and reflect on the lasting impact of Lenin’s leadership on Soviet Russia.

Overall, the Bolshevik Consolidation of Power lesson plan saves teachers time while ensuring students gain a deep, engaging, and critical understanding of this significant historical period.

Total Slides: 24
Teaching Duration: 3 hours