... time, it had few powers and the masses of the people had no voice. The war effort put a huge strain on the ordinary people of Russia. It was they who bore the costs of the war, the humanitarian effort (fighting at the front) and the economic hardships brought about by the war. Food supplies quickly ran short and the people began ... ...

• Word Count: 1279
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

... Russia. In German hands it would block Russian attempts to destroy German armies between the Don and Caucasus. But Stalin was equally determined to defend it, not least as it bore his name. His order was read out to every Soviet soldier - 'Not a step backwards!' Hence the clash of the titans. By July 1942 the oil fields seemed to be at ... ...

• Word Count: 1851
• Approx Pages: 7