War Communism was the economic and political system that existed in Soviet Russia during the Civil War (1918-1921).

Its primary goal was to supply the Red Army and keep the cities fed during the war.

Key features included the nationalization of all industries, a state monopoly on foreign trade, and strict control over labor.

The most controversial aspect was the 'prodrazvyorstka,' the forced requisitioning of surplus grain and other agricultural products from the peasantry.

War Communism led to a near-total collapse of the economy and widespread peasant revolts.

A major famine in 1921 killed millions of people.

In response to this crisis, Lenin introduced the New Economic Policy (NEP) in 1921.

The NEP was a strategic, temporary retreat to market-based policies.

It abolished forced grain requisitioning, allowing peasants to sell their surplus produce on the open market.

While the state retained control of major industries (the 'commanding heights'), small private businesses were allowed to operate, reviving the Russian economy.