Final answer:
During the 1930s, Soviet cities experienced mass urbanization as peasants moved to work in newly built factories. Life in the cities was difficult, with long working hours, low pay, poor living conditions, and food shortages, despite the Soviet Union's economic growth under Stalin's Five-Year Plans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Urbanization and Hardship in the Soviet Union During the 1930s
The 1930s in the Soviet Union were marked by significant changes and challenges, particularly for cities. Under Joseph Stalin's rule, the Soviet Union embarked on a rapid pace of industrialization, resulting in mass urbanization as peasants migrated to cities seeking employment in new factories. Despite the push for economic growth, urban life was fraught with hardships. Workers faced long hours, low pay, and poor living conditions. There was a shortage of housing, clothing, and food; many people crowded into small apartments, and widespread food scarcity led to increased reliance on dining halls. Although citizens were hopeful about the government's ability to provide for their needs, they also had to contend with more authoritarian governance and the watchful eye of the state.
These struggles occurred against the backdrop of a global economic downturn. While the Soviet economy was growing and providing full employment, thanks to the Five-Year Plans set forth by Stalin, Western democracies were suffering from the Great Depression. This contrast led some to view communism as a more attractive alternative to capitalist systems, and the Communist Party gained support by offering an alternative during times of economic distress.