The Collapse of the Second International

Historical Context and Significance

The book «The Collapse of the Second International» by Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, written in 1915, holds significant historical importance in the context of the development of Marxist theory and the revolutionary movement of the early 20th century. In this work, Lenin criticizes the leaders of the Second International for their support of their governments during World War I, which he believes contradicted the internationalist principles of socialism. He accuses them of opportunism and betrayal of the working class, marking a pivotal moment in the split of the socialist movement into reformist and revolutionary wings. Lenin asserts the necessity of creating a new, Third International, which would truly represent the interests of the proletariat and be prepared for revolutionary struggle. This work had a substantial impact on the formation of the communist movement and became the theoretical foundation for the creation of the Comintern in 1919. The book also played a role in strengthening the Bolsheviks' position in Russia and preparing for the October Revolution of 1917, becoming a crucial element in the ideological struggle of that time.