Britain's Historical Stance Towards Russia: From Siege to Support

The relationship between Britain and Russia has been a complex and multifaceted one over the centuries, ranging from military conflicts to political alliances. This essay delves into Britain's involvement in wars against Russia and its intervention in the Russian Revolution, highlighting the decisions and actions taken under the leadership of key figures like Winston Churchill.

1. The Britain vs Russia Tangle

The historical rivalry between Britain and Russia can be traced back to the 19th century, beginning with the Crimean War of 1853-1856. This conflict, one of the major wars of the late 19th century, saw an alliance of France, Sardinia, Britain, and the Ottoman Empire fight against the Russian Empire in the Crimean peninsula.

The causes of this war were rooted in a dispute over who would rule over Orthodox Christians within the Ottoman Empire. While this may seem like a distant and irrelevant issue today, it was a critical point of contention at the time, driving both nations to take up arms.

2. Winston Churchill and the Defence of Bolshevism

Despite the historical animosity, there were instances of British intervention in Russia to suppress revolutionary movements. One such notable figure is Winston Churchill, who, as a prime minister, played a significant role in sending British and Empire troops to Russia to suppress the Bolsheviks during the 1920s.

Churchill, known as the 'Class War Warrior,' dispatched approximately 60,000 troops into Russia with the objective of crushing the Bolshevik revolution. His actions were part of a broader effort by multiple intervening forces, including the other 21 foreign armies, to counter the rise of a new Workers State in the form of the "Октябрьская революция."

3. WW1 and the Great War Intervention

During the First World War, Britain again found itself on the side of opposing the Russian Empire. In 1918, the US, UK, and France sent troops to assist the opposition to the Communist regime. The goal was to get Russia back into the war against Germany, particularly after Russia had surrendered, freeing up German troops to bolster their forces in France.

These British and Allied troops, known as 'The Polar Bears,' served alongside other forces in a futile attempt to weaken the Bolsheviks. However, fearing a stronger Communist state and realizing the impossibility of success, these troops were largely ignored by their nations after the war ended.

4. Assessing the Historical Context

Understanding Britain's historical stance towards Russia is crucial for grasping the current attitudes and sentiments. The intervening in conflicts, whether during the Crimean War or the Russian Civil War, has left a lasting impact on the perception of Western interventions.

Today, many British individuals view Russia with a more measured and sensible perspective compared to their American counterparts. The distrust towards Western foreign policy, encapsulated by these historical interventions, is not misplaced. Understanding these historical grievances helps in appreciating the complex tapestry of international relations.

5. Conclusion

Britain's relationship with Russia has evolved over time, encompassing military conflicts and political interventions. From the Crimean War to the support for the anti-Bolshevik forces, each event has left its mark on the historical record. Understanding these events provides insight into the complex dynamics that continue to shape international relations to this day.