Final answer:
The SU experienced numerous surplaces and shortfalls due to its inability to effectively manage its economy, its harsh climate, its reliance on imports, and the ravages of war. Industrialization was also slowed due to the largely serf-based population. Attempts to salvage the economy through policies like the NEP had limited success due to the extensive damage and mismanagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Soviet Union (SU) experienced many surpluses and shortfalls due to a combination of factors. Primarily, central planners could not manage every detail, leading to inefficiencies and imbalances in the economy. Industrialization was slow as the Russian population mostly consisted of serfs who were not able to venture into factories. This limited artisanal trades, hence restricting the mechanization of production.
Furthermore, the harsh and cold Russian climate made farming difficult leading to inconsistent agricultural output. The SU's economy was heavily reliant on importing resources, which only added to its economic instability. World War I highlighted Russia's deficiencies in industrialization, as they struggled to move troops and provide foodstuffs to factory workers due to inadequate railroads.
The war also had significant implications on Russia's economy, deflating its industrial and agricultural production and causing rampant unemployment and inflation. Economic recovery was attempted via the New Economic Policy (NEP) in 1921 which introduced some aspects of capitalism while still maintaining state control of the economy, however this only achieved partial success.
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SPJ11