Through Bolshevik Russia

"Through Bolshevik Russia" by Mrs. Philip Snowden is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the author's observations and experiences during her six-week visit to Russia as part of a British Labour Delegation amidst the tumult of the Bolshevik Revolution. It explores the social, economic, and political conditions of Russia under Bolshevik rule, emphasizing the suffering of the Russian people. The opening of the work sets the stage for Snowden's critical examination of Bolshevik Russia, as she underscores the profound suffering endured by the populace due to war and famine. She conveys her mission to understand the truths of the Russian experience, presenting observations about the stark contrasts between the lavish lifestyles of some and the dire poverty of many. The narrative opens with a focus on the hunger and disease plaguing the country, presenting a poignant picture of suffering that she witnessed firsthand, thereby establishing a foundation for her broader exploration of Bolshevik policies and their impact on society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ethel Snowden, Viscountess Snowden, was a British socialist, human rights activist, and feminist politician. From a middle-class background, she became a Christian Socialist through a radical preacher and initially promoted temperance and teetotalism in the slums of Liverpool. She aligned to the Fabian Society and later the Independent Labour Party, earning an income by lecturing in Britain and abroad. Snowden was one of the leading campaigners for women's suffrage before the First World War, then founding The Women's Peace Crusade to oppose the war and call for a negotiated peace. After a visit to the Soviet Union she developed a strong criticism of its system, which made her unpopular when relayed to the left-wing in Britain.