"All Power to the Soviets!"
Lenin's writings from 1917
are a marvellous insight into the Bolshevik leader's thinking in this crucial year.
1917 witnessed a series of dramatic turns that propelled the Bolsheviks, the
most revolutionary party in history
, from some 8,000 members to a mass force of 400,000 in just nine months.
Following the February Revolution, Lenin was forced to
rearm
the Bolsheviks with a new perspective of
socialist revolution
. With skilful tactics and a bold approach, he presided over the growth of the party. Although the Bolsheviks were driven underground in July, and Lenin branded a state criminal by the Provisional Government, the failed coup by General Kornilov in August transformed the situation.
By fighting in a united front against Kornilov, the Bolsheviks succeeded in winning a majority in the Soviets. Under Lenin's guidance, outlined in this volume, this victory prepared the way for the
October Revolution
.
These selected writings draw out the invaluable role of the revolutionary party and its leadership. They are an
essential guide
for those fighting for socialist revolution today.