McGrath of Harlow 07 Jan 04 - 06:37 AM

"...one of the early signs that indicated what could be possible in the ensuing weeks"

I think that just about covers everything. I've just tried to imagine something that wouldn't be "possible in the ensuing weeks", and it's not that easy."

After the 1917 revolution in Russia the Bolsheviks turned their attention to the Kulaks, farmers who owned their own land. Under collectivisation they were wiped out, which was a great pity for the Russian people as it was these farmers who actually kept the country fed. From that point at no time did the glorious communist soviet regime ever suceed in doing what a bunch of middle class farmers had done for centuries. Russia imported food from the USA (Grain) and from Europe.

The significance of a good harvest in Russia was that it opened the option for an attack in the west. If your larder is empty you do not destroy the bakery or green grocers shop.