The Red Army was the military force of the Soviet Union from 1918 to 1946. It was formally established during the Russian Civil War to oppose the White Army, which consisted of anti-Bolshevik forces. Here are some key points about the Red Army:
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Formation: The Red Army was formed on January 28, 1918, by the Bolsheviks who had just seized power in the October Revolution of 1917. It was initially known as the Workers' and Peasants' Red Army.
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Leadership: Early leadership included figures like Leon Trotsky, who was instrumental in organizing and leading the Red Army during the Civil War. Later, under Joseph Stalin, the army underwent significant reforms and purges.
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World War II: The Red Army played a pivotal role in World War II, particularly on the Eastern Front. The army's resistance at Stalingrad and its part in the Battle of Kursk were crucial in turning the tide against Nazi Germany. The Red Army's advance into Germany culminated in the capture of Berlin in 1945.
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Size: At its peak during WWII, the Red Army numbered over 11 million soldiers, making it one of the largest military forces in history.
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Reorganization: After WWII, the Red Army was reorganized into the Soviet Army, which then became part of the broader Warsaw Pact forces during the Cold War.
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Legacy: The Red Army's legacy includes its role in defeating the Axis powers, its contribution to the Soviet Union's global standing, and its influence on military strategy and tactics. However, it also carried a complex history of political purges, forced conscription, and significant human losses.
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