Animal Farm: George Orwell, Communism, and the Russian Revolution

Peasant farmers eating lunch in Russia during the early 1900s

Often, civil wars and massive changes in government are preceded by decades of unhappiness on the part of the people. Such was the case in Russia. Before you learn about the Russian Revolution, it may be helpful to know more about Russia in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Take a few moments to view the video Setting the Stage from eMediaVASM. As you view the video, take note of how the Russian population was doing prior to the revolution. What were their living conditions?