Russia and China - Contrasts
Why has the political and economic development of Russia since 1991 been so different than that of China? Russia – political collapse of Communism and the Communist Party. China – Communist Party keeps political control after brutally suppressing demonstrations in Tiananmen Square. Russia – loses Eastern Europe and much of old Russian Empire, creating economic disruption and political enemies on borders. China – keeps territorial boundaries. Russia – slow to reform agriculture. China – starts reforming agriculture in late 1970s. Increases food production and income of farmers. Russia – tries to move quickly to democracy. Ends up with disappointment and authoritarian government. Does not tolerate internal dissent. China – no free elections. Does not tolerate internal dissent. Russia – attempts quick transition to capitalism. Ends up with corrupt combination of government bureaucrats and oligarchs...