Social & Economic Effects of WW1
History: AQA GCSE Russia, 1894-1945, topic 1.3.2
Economic Effects of the First World War
Russia was not the only country that struggled with the effects of “total war” on its economy and society.
Economic effects
- The government printed too much money, which caused the Russian currency (ruble) to fall in value.
- This worsened the cost-of-living crisis.
- Taxes were increased on the poor to fund government spending on the war.
- Government spending increased by a multiple of eight between 1913 and 1916 AD.
Inflation
- Inflation (rising prices and fall in value of currency) meant that workers’ wages could no longer afford everyday items.
- During the war years, wages increased by 200%, but food and fuel increased 400% in price.
- This cut living standards by 50%.
Social Effects of the First World War in Russia
Russia was not the only country that struggled with the effects of “total war” on its economy and society. But Russia was the only country that faced revolution in 1917 AD.
Railways
- The army took over control of the railroads and railways and requisitioned (took forcibly) huge amounts of food to feed the army.
- This caused the Russian railway system to collapse, which caused the food supply to the towns and cities to suffer.
Refugees
- Many refugees came from across Russia to Petrograd, but the city struggled to cope because it was far away from food-producing areas.
- The bread ration fell from 1.2kg to 0.8kg from 1916-1917 AD.
- By February, Moscow was receiving 1,500 fewer wagons of grain per month compared to before the war.
Peasants in the countryside
- There was suffering in the countryside too.
- Around 16 million peasants fought in the army and many were injured or died.
- Horses that had previously been used for ploughing were seized by the military. The war made it very difficult to keep producing enough food.
Test yourself on Social & Economic Effects of WW1
Which of the following about the economic effects of war are correct?
What was the name of the Russian currency?
The Railway System in Russia in WW1
What happened to the bread ration in Russia between 1916 and 1917 AD?
Which of these are true of Russia in WW1?