How did the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin influence international relations?

The Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin significantly altered international relations, leading to ideological polarisation and the onset of the Cold War.

The Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent rise of Joseph Stalin as the leader of the Soviet Union had profound implications for international relations. The revolution marked the birth of the first communist state in the world, which challenged the prevailing capitalist order. This ideological shift led to a polarisation of global politics, with countries aligning themselves either with the capitalist West or the communist East.

The revolution and the rise of Stalin also led to a significant shift in the balance of power. The Soviet Union emerged as a superpower, rivalling the United States in military might and political influence. This new bipolar world order was characterised by a constant struggle for dominance between the two superpowers, leading to a series of proxy wars and political crises that defined the Cold War era.

Furthermore, the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin influenced international relations through the spread of communist ideology. The Soviet Union actively supported communist movements in various parts of the world, leading to the establishment of communist regimes in countries like China, North Korea, and Cuba. This spread of communism was perceived as a threat by the capitalist West, further escalating tensions and contributing to the Cold War.

The policies of Stalin also had a significant impact on international relations. His policy of 'Socialism in One Country' focused on strengthening the Soviet Union internally, which often led to strained relations with other countries. His aggressive foreign policy, including the annexation of Eastern European countries after World War II, further heightened tensions with the West.

In conclusion, the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin had a profound impact on international relations. They led to the polarisation of global politics along ideological lines, a shift in the balance of power, the spread of communism, and heightened tensions that culminated in the Cold War. These developments continue to shape international relations to this day.