Ten Days That Shook the World · Chapter
The Nakaz to Skobeliev explained
This chapter presents the full text of the 'Nakaz' (mandate) issued by the Central Executive Committee (Tsay-ee-kah) to Skobeliev as instructions for representing Russian revolutionary democracy at the Paris Conference.
What happens
This chapter presents the full text of the 'Nakaz' (mandate) issued by the Central Executive Committee (Tsay-ee-kah) to Skobeliev as instructions for representing Russian revolutionary democracy at the Paris Conference. It outlines a comprehensive peace program based on 'no annexations, no indemnities, and self-determination of peoples,' covering territorial adjustments, freedom of the seas, indemnities, economic terms, guarantees of peace, and pathways to negotiations, including support for the Stockholm Socialist Conference.
Themes in this chapter
National Self-Determination and Emancipation
The Nakaz repeatedly emphasizes the right of self-determination for nations such as Poland, Lithuania, Livonia, Turkish Armenia, and others, reflecting the Bolshevik commitment to national liberation.
Struggle for Legitimacy and Power
By issuing this Nakaz, the Tsay-ee-kah asserts its authority to define Soviet foreign policy, challenging the legitimacy of the Provisional Government's diplomatic efforts.
Characters to notice
- Matvei Skobelev
Recipient of the Nakaz as the representative of Russian revolutionary democracy at the Paris Conference.
Key passages
“The peace treaty must be based on the principle, 'No annexations, no indemnities, the right of self-determination of peoples.'”
The peace agreement must be founded on the principles of no territorial seizures, no reparations, and the right of peoples to determine their own political status.
Core principle of the Nakaz, echoing the Decree on Peace.
“Secret diplomacy is to be abolished; all parties are to bind themselves not to conclude any secret treaties.”
All secret diplomatic agreements are to be eliminated, and nations must commit to refraining from making any covert treaties.
Reflects the Bolshevik call for open diplomacy and transparency in international relations.