Bolshevik Decree Against Makhnovist Movement

January 9th, 1920

January 9th, 1920

Bolshevik Decree Against Makhnovist Movement
How Long Ago?

105 years, 2 months, 5 days ago

Location

Ukrainian territories

Category

Politics & Government

War/Conflict

Ukrainian War of Independence

People
  • Vladimir Lenin
  • Nestor Makhno
Links & References
Tags

Bolshevik Decree Against Makhnovist Movement

The All-Ukrainian Central Executive Committee issued a decree outlawing the Makhnovshchina, led by Nestor Makhno. This decree prompted escalating tensions between the Bolsheviks and Makhnovists, who had previously collaborated against common foes. The decision marked a significant turning point in the Ukrainian War of Independence, as it solidified the rift between the two factions. Makhno and his supporters resisted Bolshevik authority while continuing their fight for an independent and libertarian Ukraine.

Decree aimed to eliminate Makhnovist influence.

Makhno advocated for anarchist society against Bolsheviks.

Conflict showcased ideological rifts in Ukraine's governance.

Events influenced future Ukrainian nationalist movements.

What Happened?

The All-Ukrainian Central Executive Committee, serving as the governing body of Soviet Ukraine, took a decisive step by outlawing the Makhnovshchina, a revolutionary movement led by Nestor Makhno, on September 1, 1920. Makhno's forces had previously cooperated with the Bolsheviks in fighting against various imperial and anti-Bolshevik groups during the Ukrainian War of Independence. However, ideological differences began to surface, with the Makhnovists advocating for a stateless, anarchist society, contrasting sharply with the Bolshevik commitment to a centralized communist government. This decree was not merely a bureaucratic measure; it signified a realignment in power dynamics in the region. The Bolshevik leadership viewed Makhno's anarchist ideology as a direct threat to their control and sought to consolidate their authority by removing the Makhnovists from the political landscape.The outlawing of the Makhnovshchina marked the beginning of an intense conflict between the Bolsheviks and Makhno's forces. Following the decree, Makhno and his troops went underground and launched a campaign of resistance against the Bolsheviks. The conflict resulted in a series of military engagements that highlighted the complexities of the Ukrainian fight for independence. The Makhnovists, using guerrilla tactics, aimed to defend their territory while promoting their vision of a free, stateless society. This struggle not only reflected the turmoil within Ukraine but also the broader ideological battles unfolding across Europe at the time, as various factions vied for power and influence in the post-World War I landscape. Makhno’s armed resistance garnered both local support and condemnation, making his movement one of the most controversial chapters in the history of the Ukrainian revolution.The conflict continued to reshape the socio-political fabric of Ukraine throughout the early 1920s as the Bolsheviks sought to quash any opposition. The Makhnovists, although eventually defeated, immortalized their ideals of peasant freedom and resistance against oppressive governance, leaving a lasting legacy on the consciousness of Ukrainian nationalism and anarchism. Their struggle serves as a significant example of the diverse political movements arising in the wake of empires' collapse and the fight for self-determination by local forces in the face of totalitarianism.

Why Does it Matter?

The outlawing of the Makhnovshchina by the Bolsheviks serves as a critical episode in the complex history of the Ukrainian War of Independence. This conflict not only illustrated the enduring tensions between different factions aspiring for power but also highlighted the ideological battles shaping Ukraine’s political narrative. The resistance against Bolshevik centralism by the Makhnovists has inspired subsequent movements for autonomy and freedom.

Discover More Historic Events from January 9th

Accidents & Tragedies

Sriwijaya Air Flight 182 crashes north of Jakarta

January 9th, 2021 4 years ago

Sriwijaya Air Flight 182 tragically crashed on its way from Jakarta to Pontianak, Indonesia, shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 737-500 lost contact with air traffic control about four minutes into the flight. Rescue efforts were initiated quickly, leading to the recovery of debris and human remains from the Java Sea. All 62 people aboard, including passengers and crew, were confirmed dead.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Charlie Hebdo Attack Perpetrators Killed in Siege

January 9th, 2015 10 years ago

Following the Charlie Hebdo shooting, two assailants, Cherif Kouachi and Said Kouachi, were killed during a hostage situation at a printing company in Dammartin-en-Goële. Meanwhile, another hostage crisis unfolded at a kosher supermarket in Vincennes, where Amedy Coulibaly, affiliated with the attackers, held several hostages. The police responded to both incidents, ultimately resulting in fatalities and the freeing of hostages.

Continue Reading
Health & Medicine

Contaminated Beer Causes Mass Poisoning in Mozambique

January 9th, 2015 10 years ago

At a funeral in Mozambique, beer contaminated with Burkholderia gladioli led to a mass poisoning incident that left 75 people dead and over 230 individuals ill. The event occurred during a traditional funeral gathering, where attendees consumed the tainted beverage. Initial investigations pointed to the use of local ingredients for brewing, which had been compromised. This tragic incident cast a spotlight on food safety and public health practices in Mozambique.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Explosion at Mitsubishi Chemical Plant in Yokkaichi

January 9th, 2014 11 years ago

An explosion occurred at the Mitsubishi Materials chemical plant in Yokkaichi, Japan, resulting in at least five fatalities and 17 injuries. The blast, which took place during the plant's operation, raised concerns about safety measures in industrial facilities. Emergency services responded promptly, and investigations were initiated to understand the cause of the explosion, highlighting the risks associated with chemical production.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Iran Air Flight 277 crashes in icy conditions

January 9th, 2011 14 years ago

Iran Air Flight 277 experienced a fatal crash near Urmia due to icy conditions. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-83, was attempting to land at Urmia Airport when it lost control and went down. A total of 78 people on board were killed, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Iran's history. The weather conditions at the time were poor, characterized by heavy snowfall and low visibility, which contributed to the tragic outcome of this flight.

Continue Reading
Technology & Innovation

Steve Jobs unveils the original iPhone

January 9th, 2007 18 years ago

At a Macworld keynote in San Francisco, Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone, a revolutionary device combining a mobile phone, iPod, and internet communicator. This event marked the beginning of a new era in mobile technology, showcasing features such as a touchscreen interface, visual voicemail, and a sleek design. With Jobs' charismatic presentation, he highlighted the device's potential to change how people interacted with technology. This unveiling set the stage for Apple's entry into the smartphone market, captivating the audience and tech enthusiasts alike.

Continue Reading