Soviet Industrialization

Soviet industrialization was a rapid campaign launched in the 1920s and 1930s to transform the USSR from an largely agrarian economy into a major industrial power. The government prioritized heavy industries like steel, coal, and machinery, often through centralized planning and ambitious five-year plans. This involved large-scale infrastructure projects, collectivization of agriculture, and mobilization of labor. While it significantly boosted industrial output and military strength, it also caused hardship for many workers and peasants, including famines and social upheaval. Overall, it aimed to modernize the economy and strengthen the Soviet Union's global position.