The Internal Divergence of Modern Europe: Why Russia and Western Europe grew apart in Economic and Political Outcomes (1648-1992)
By Ameliawaters
-
Period: to
The Internal Divergence of Modern Europe: Why Russia and Western Europe grew apart in Economic and Political Outcomes (1648-1992)
-
British Bill of Rights
This document left true authority and power with parliament in Westminster rather than with the monarch. It is significant as it entrenched the protection of British people from arbitrary rule, while Russians remained as subjects under serfdom. By protecting people with the rule of law, it encouraged a rising middle class in Britain, as well as providing all people with basic rights and protections from the state. -
Table of Ranks
This was a piece of legislation under which Peter the Great reduced the power of nobility and increased central power of himself, the absolute monarch. Controlling nobility was a key feature of absolute rule, with power being derived from God directly and resting in the hands of one power. This legislation only strengthened the Russian tsar’s power and allowed it to go unchecked. -
Completion of the Railroad between Liverpool and Manchester
This was the first modern rail line in Britain and is significant because it is representative of Britain’s early domination in the industrial revolution. The railway was a catalyst for the British explosion in industry as it allowed raw materials to be transported to factories and finished products to be taken to the coast for trade. It was the Western European states that first dominated, with Russia slow to introduce rail. -
Soviet Propaganda
Propaganda is a significant part of soviet Russian culture as it is mandated from the top of government to portray a message and shape the views of the people. This particular piece intended to represent Western powers as bad influences and corrupt monarchs who Russia wants to stay away from. It shows Lenin as a benevolent and caring figure, sweeping any dangerous force away from the Russian people.