On the Issue of Views on Religion and the Fight Against It by Soviet Statesmen in 1918–1928

The ideas and views of major Soviet figures about religion, its place in society and the fight against it in the period from 1918 to 1928, when the gradual establishment of Soviet power took place, are analyzed. The author comes to the conclusion that the views of Soviet leaders on religion during this period can be characterized as relatively liberal and only at the turn of 1928–1929. they will gradually begin to radicalize for a number of reasons. The main methods proposed by the authorities in the fight against religion are considered. Attention is drawn to the fact that in the texts and speeches of figures the importance of the gradual and non-violent eradication of religious thinking from society is repeatedly emphasized. However, after 1928, accusations of counter-revolutionary activities and demands for increased pressure on religious organizations and their leaders and changes in the nature of the policy towards the church began to appear in speeches.