Menshevik meaning

Menshevik refers to a member of the minority faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party, advocating gradual rather than revolutionary change.


Menshevik definitions

Word backwards kivehsneM
Part of speech The word "Menshevik" is a proper noun.
Syllabic division Men-she-vik
Plural The plural form of the word Menshevik is Mensheviks.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) e,i
Consonants (6) m,n,s,h,v,k

The Mensheviks were a faction of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party, which emerged in the early 20th century in Russia. The term "Menshevik" is derived from the Russian word "menshinstvo," meaning minority, as they were initially a minority within the party.

Menshevik Ideology

The Mensheviks believed in a gradualist approach to achieving socialism, advocating for a peaceful transition through democratic means rather than a violent revolution. They emphasized the importance of cooperation with the bourgeoisie and other political parties to bring about social change.

Menshevik vs. Bolshevik

The Mensheviks were in opposition to the Bolshevik faction led by Vladimir Lenin. The key point of contention between the two factions was the strategy for achieving socialism. While the Mensheviks favored a parliamentary democracy and coalition government, the Bolsheviks called for a violent overthrow of the existing system.

Role in the Russian Revolution

During the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Mensheviks initially played a significant role in the provisional government. However, they soon lost support due to their moderate stance and were eventually sidelined by the more radical Bolsheviks, who seized power in October 1917.

After the Bolsheviks came to power, the Mensheviks were suppressed, with many members either fleeing the country or being imprisoned and executed. The faction continued to exist in exile, but its influence and significance diminished significantly.

Despite their defeat, the Mensheviks left a lasting impact on the history of socialist thought. Their emphasis on democratic principles and gradualism in the transition to socialism influenced political movements around the world.

faction and minority are noteworthy terms regarding the Menshevik movement, while gradualist approach and democratic principles highlight their key ideologies.


Menshevik Examples

  1. The Menshevik faction opposed the Bolsheviks in the Russian Revolution.
  2. Many historians believe that the Mensheviks had a more moderate approach compared to the Bolsheviks.
  3. During the early 20th century, Mensheviks were a significant political group in Russia.
  4. The Menshevik leaders aimed to create a more democratic political system.
  5. After the Russian Civil War, the Menshevik party was eventually suppressed by the Bolsheviks.
  6. Some scholars debate the true intentions of Menshevik leaders during the revolution.
  7. The Mensheviks advocated for a coalition government in Russia.
  8. The Menshevik party split into various factions after the Bolsheviks gained power.
  9. Menshevik ideology influenced political movements in other countries as well.
  10. The Mensheviks believed in gradual social reforms rather than immediate revolution.


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  • Updated 27/04/2024 - 17:45:06