Imperialism and the Communist International

Fredrik Petersson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The article charts and discuss the historical use of the concept of imperialism in the Communist International(Comintern; Third International, 1919–43). By analyzing first, the establishment and framework of theComintern’s understanding and use of imperialism as a political and instrumental tool, the aim of the articleis to look beyond the official and sanctioned policy of the Comintern on imperialism between the wars. Indoing so, the author examines and discuss internal discussions as they evolved over time at Cominternheadquarters in Moscow by analyzing documents filed in the Comintern Archive (RGASPI) in Moscow. Keyconcepts focus on the Leninist perception of imperialism; the periodization debate, and contextualexplanations linked to the frequent policy shifts of the Comintern and its relation to Bolshevization andStalinization. In conclusion, the article highlights the historical trajectory of imperialism and anti-imperialism as a constituent source of Bolshevik policy making in its interpretation of global society. 

Original languageUndefined/Unknown
Pages (from-to)23–42
JournalJournal of Labor and Society
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

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