Question 2 (b) Explain why Stalin introduced the Five-Year Plans.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme. The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. Target: A01 (recall, select and deploy historical knowledge) and A02 (explain, analyse and make reasoned judgements).
2. Level 1 (1-2 marks): Simple statements or descriptions of the Five-Year Plans. Limited explanation of reasons. For example, states Stalin wanted to make Russia strong.
3. Level 2 (3-5 marks): Identifies and describes reasons for the introduction of the Five-Year Plans. Some attempt at explanation, but links may be implicit or undeveloped. For example, describes the need to catch up with the West and build up heavy industry.
4. Level 3 (6-8 marks): Explains a range of reasons for the introduction of the Five-Year Plans, showing clear understanding of the links and significance of each. Developed explanations showing sound historical knowledge. For example, explains the desire for a strong industrial base for defence, to achieve 'Socialism in One Country', to outstrip capitalist nations, and to improve living standards.
5. Indicative content:
6. - **Industrialisation:** To rapidly industrialise the Soviet Union and catch up with capitalist countries.
7. - **Defence:** To build up heavy industries crucial for military strength in case of war.
8. - **'Socialism in One Country':** To prove the superiority of the communist system and make the USSR economically independent.
9. - **Political Control:** To consolidate Stalin's power and eliminate opposition (e.g., from Bukharin's Right Opposition).
10. - **Economic Self-Sufficiency:** To reduce reliance on foreign imports and capitalist economies.
11. - **Improve living standards (stated aim):** Though often at great cost, a declared aim was to improve the lives of Soviet citizens.
12. - **Overcome weaknesses of NEP:** To replace the New Economic Policy which Stalin viewed as too capitalist and slow.