Why the Communists Failed to Seize Power in 1918 Essay

Why the Communists Failed to Seize Power in 1918 The failure of the communists to seize power originates from the First World War. Initially, all parties, including the Left, supported Germany going to war. As the war prolonged however and Germany was running short of essential supplies such as food as a result of the blockade by the allies. More Germans started questioning the rational of continuing with the war. The Parliament also changed its attitude. Left wing parties like the SPD that had initially supported Germany going to war began to have doubts. Internal conflicts let to the formation of the Independent German Social Democratic Party, USPD. Another far-extreme party, the Spartacist party†¦show more content†¦They organized antiwar demonstrations and strikes. Still, those in power did not think the government was under any threat. The country was not ready for a revolution even though the morale was low as a result of the defeat in the First World War and there was shortage of essential supplies including food and medicine as a result of the blockade by the allies. The nation was generally in a state of turmoil. There was a general feeling especially within the left wing that time was ripe for a break from the capitalist government. The monarchy was overthrown and a provisional government set up. A network of soldiers and workers councils was established nationwide. However, the SDP being the government of the day controlled the councils. In the councils there were more delegates who were SDP than workers delegates.[1] This meant that the SDP controlled both the government ant the councils. They also had the support of the masses. The councils were also weakly coordinated. The main factors that contributed to this failure were the following: Ø Unlike Russia, Germany was an advanced industrial nation with a solid and powerful capitalist class. The middle class was strong and influential. Ø Unlike their counterparts in Russia and France, the German working class had benefited from several welfare measures since the 1800s. The army had had gloriousShow MoreRelatedLenin‚Äà ²s October 1917 Revolution: limited accomplishments, yet a turning point in 20th century history2291 Words   |  10 Pagesnations impeded that spread,. Once having become the leader of the vast territories that had formed the Russian Empire and having created a constitution nearly approaching democracy, Lenin was further surprised when the large majority of the populace failed to be inspired by the ideals of Communism, leading Lenin to regretfully become totalitarian in order to protect the revolution. 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