Understanding Communism Past and Present

Although there are very few Communist nations remaining in the world today, this socio-economic system had a dramatic impact on the twentieth century in many ways.

Before students can understand the effect of Communism on both the eastern and western world, they must understand Communism in general. You can create a short list of the basic elements of Communism which will help students to assess and analyze its impact. Equally important is an understanding of why many parts of Europe were ripe for Communism in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. You may want to consider creating a social, political and economic profile of each nation in which Communism took hold (e.g.: Poland, East Germany, the USSR, Yugoslavia, etc . . .). Students should think about why Communism was appealing to these nations at the time and whether it worked or not for them.

Compare and contrast the former Eastern bloc nations with nations that are Communist today (e.g.: Cuba, North Korea and China). Explore why, after so many failed attempts at Communism, these nations choose to adhere to this system. Have students research the leaders of these nations as well as the social and economic status of the countries. One area which is particularly interesting to examine is how technologically advanced these nations are in comparison to world powers like the United States. It is also interesting to learn about daily life in Communist nations and how it differs from that to which students are accustomed. Finally, a thorough analysis of the use of the media in Communist countries will prove a valuable lesson for students as well. For more lessons on communism see the examples below.

Learning About Communism:

The Rise of Communism

This lesson provides an excellent introduction to the economic theories of Adam Smith and Karl Marx. Students learn about the "Communist Manifesto," communism, socialism and capitalism. This lesson serves as the foundation for any study of this important material.

Russia's Conversion from Communism to Capitalism

Students learn about how Russia has shifted from Communism to capitalism in recent history. They have the opportunity to analyze why this transition was difficult, what has worked and what hasn’t. To sum up what they have learned, you may choose to have students predict what the future will bring for Russia and whether they think that ultimately this drastic economic change was worthwhile for the nation.

Understanding the Fall of Communism in Eastern Europe

Students examine the fall of Communism in Europe throughout the twentieth century. Beginning with the fall of the Berlin Wall, students chronicle the fall of Communism. Students consider how life has changed for the inhabitants of formerly communist countries. You may choose to extend this lesson to include an analysis of daily life in nations such as Cuba and North Korea which remain Communist to this day.

 

 

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