This book provides a comprehensive survey of Soviet economic development from 1917 to 1965 in the context of the pre-revolutionary economy. In these years the Soviet Union negotiated the first stages of modern industrialisation and then, after the defeat of Nazi Germany and its allies, emerged as one of the two world superpowers. This was also the first attempt to construct a planned socialist order. These developments resulted in great economic achievements at great human cost. Using the results of recent Russian and Western research, Professor Davies discusses the inherent faults and strengths of the system, and pays particular attention to the major controversies. Was the Russian Revolution doomed to failure from the outset? Could the mixed economy of the 1920s have led to a democratic socialist economy? What was the influence of Soviet economic development on the rest of the world?

‘Books in this series are designed to introduce students to key topics, and to set out the arguments and issues in a ‘critical but unpartisan fashion’. R. W. Davies has done this with admirable clarity … As a teaching tool this book will prove invaluable.’

Donal Filtzer - University of East London

‘Davies has provided a valuable addition to a distinguished series and one which will earn the gratitude of students of Soviet economic development.’

Source: Economic History Review