The Peace of Brest-Litovsk

Paper Summary:

This paper attempts to determine why a peace treaty so unfavorable to Russia was ratified by the Soviet government. It first examines the personal intentions of Lenin and how they differ or parallel to those of the socialist revolution. It then evaluates the extent of the German assistance to the Bolsheviks prior to the revolution and how Lenin attempted to fulfill the promises given to the Germans in exchange for their help. Finally, it traces the method by which the peace treaty was ratified on the VII Party Congress despite wide spread opposition.

Outline
Lenin's Intentions
German Assistance to the Bolsheviks
Promises Fulfilled
Growth of Domestic Opposition
The VII Party Congress of March 1918 and the Ratification of the Treaty
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The evolving question of Lenin's intentions after his coming to power in October of 1917 and of the goals that Lenin strived for before and after the revolution is the essential objective in studying the history of the Peace Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. Lenin did not change his focus based on the circumstances, rather he tried to find the most suitable way of fulfilling his goals. Lenin began his struggle for power around 1903. It is not clear whether he needed this power for the victory of the revolution or the revolution was a means for fulfilling his personal ambitions."

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