Question

ln what ways was the working population in Russia different from other countries in Europe before 1917

Answer 1

There are many reasons why working population in Russia was different from other European countries before 1917. Some of these reasons are given below:

# The percentage of

agriculturists in Russia was much higher than in other countries in Europe. In

other words, 85 percent of the Russian working population followed agriculture

profession whereas only 40 to 50 percent of the population in other countries

opted for agriculture as a profession.

# While industrialization

developed at a rapid rate in rest of Europe, the progress in Russia. It was

only towards the last quarter of the century that industrialization gained

momentum here.

# Workers were divided on the

basis of skills and denied basic rights like minimum wages and eight working

hours.

# Workers who earned their living

in townships still maintained strong connections with their home villages.#

the #Workers formed a social group and divided their lands among themselves based on requirements of individual families.

Answer 2

The working population in European countries was a more united lot than those in Russia. Workers in England and Germany formed associations and fought for better living and working conditions. Funds were set up by these Associations to help workers in distress. The workers in European countries were united in their demand for a reduction of working hours and the right to vote. Workers association also supported political parties and ultimately formed political parties themselves. The Labour Party in Britain and a Socialist Party in France are examples of political parties formed by socialists and trade unionists.

In total contrast to the working population in Europe, the Russian workers were not united. Workers were divided on the basis of their occupation. Workers whose jobs needed skill and training considered themselves on a higher plane than the untrained workers. Workers had strong links to the villages they came from and this also caused a social divide among workers. Workers’ associations rose dramatically in Russia also, as in Europe. They demanded reduced working hours and higher wages. The workers were suppressed by the government.