Sovietise (/ˈsəʊviətaɪz/) is a verb that means to bring under the control, influence, or economic system of the Soviet Union. This word follows British English spelling rules, where the suffix "-ise" is spelled with an "s" instead of a "z". The IPA transcription shows that the stress is placed on the second syllable "vi" and the final "e" is pronounced as "aɪz". Sovietise was a commonly used term during the Cold War, describing Soviet efforts to expand their influence over other countries.
The term "sovietise" refers to the act or process of establishing, transforming, or adapting a society or government to resemble or operate according to the principles, practices, or systems of a Soviet-style communist regime, specifically referring to the Soviet Union under Lenin and Stalin. It emerged during the early 20th century as a result of the Bolshevik revolution in Russia, which led to the establishment of the Soviet Union in 1922.
The concept of sovietise encompasses a wide range of political, social, and economic changes aimed at centralizing power, implementing a planned economy, suppressing dissent, and promoting collective decision-making through the establishment of soviets (or councils) of workers, peasants, and soldiers. It involves the adoption of Marxist-Leninist ideology and the imposition of a highly bureaucratic administrative system, often characterized by extensive state control, nationalization of industries, and strict censorship.
Sovietisation can involve the reorganization of political institutions, such as the creation of a one-party system or the establishment of a secret police apparatus to maintain control. It may also include the indoctrination of citizens through propaganda campaigns, state-controlled education, and restrictions on freedom of speech, press, and assembly.
The term "sovietise" can also be used metaphorically to describe the spread or influence of Soviet-style principles, practices, or ideologies on other countries, movements, or organizations, outside the context of the former Soviet Union.
The word "sovietise" is derived from the word "Soviet", which refers to a system of government that was established in Russia after the Russian Revolution in 1917. The term "Soviet" itself originates from the Russian word "soviet", meaning "council" or "assembly". In the context of the Russian Revolution, "Soviet" referred to workers' and soldiers' councils that were formed to exercise political power. The term "sovietise" emerged as a verb to describe the process of establishing or adopting a Soviet-style system of government or implementing Soviet policies in other countries.