As the idea of communism becomes more popular in the United States, it is important to remember how effective that type of government can be.  A government that knows what needs to be done for the greater good and the means to effect change can be a powerful force for good in the world. 

One example of the power of a communist government came on December 27, 1929 when the head of the Soviet Union made an important proclamation to improve equity in the still-developing country.  Joseph Stalin saw that there was a group of landowning peasants whose farms had grown to greater than eight acres.  These peasants, known as Kulaks, made money from their crops and often employed poorer farmers to work their land.

These were impediments to communism.  The existence of Kulaks was in direct opposition to the collectivization efforts of the people (regime). Kulaks had also resisted communism in the past and were seen as a threat to the people (regime).  These “wealthy” farmers were in fact probably all quite evil and provided a good target to garner the support of the poor.  “Eat the rich” is a time-tested slogan.  

It was for these reasons that Kulaks needed to be properly educated and give up their land to ensure the equity of all peasants.  Stalin’s declaration on December 27^th ordered the “liquidation of the Kulaks as a class”.  Stalin’s edict decreed that all Kulaks would be assigned to one of three categories: those to be shot by local secret police, those who would be sent to Siberian labor camps, and those who would be assigned to labor colonies in their own communities.  These categories would be based on how much land and wealth Kulaks previously possessed.  Of course, going forward they would possess nothing, to make everyone equal you see.  Stalin’s decree was law and the NKVD were sent to carry it out. 

It is hard to know how many of the Kulak class were killed in this “liquidation”.  Over 500,000 were killed outright but many more died in Siberian gulags, prisons, and local labor collectives.  Estimates reach as high as 5 million dead.  Whatever the number, it is not important.  Liquidating the Kulaks gave more power to the people (regime) and made everyone more equal. 

Next time you see some protester waving the red flag, be sure to remind them of the story of the Kulaks and the amount of hard work it takes to achieve equity.  Then duck, for they are sure to try to punch you in the face, you capitalist pig. 

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