1) The document provides historical background on the conditions in Russia prior to the Russian Revolution, including widespread poverty under the oppressive rule of Czar Nicholas II. 2) It introduces key figures in the Russian Revolution including Karl Marx, the founder of communism, and Vladimir Lenin, who adopted Marx's ideas and led the Bolsheviks to power in the October Revolution of 1917. 3) After Lenin's death, there was a power struggle for control of the Soviet Union between Leon Trotsky, who wanted to improve life for all, and Joseph Stalin, who craved power and was willing to kill opponents to secure his rule.

1. Animal Farm Historical Background The Russian Revolution