Meaning: The quote by Herman Gorter, a Dutch poet and Marxist theoretician, reflects his views on the Russian Revolution and the role of the proletariat and peasants in its development and aftermath. Gorter was an influential figure in the early 20th century socialist and communist movements, and his perspectives on the revolution offer valuable insights into the complexities and challenges of revolutionary change.

Gorter's statement captures a nuanced understanding of the Russian Revolution, acknowledging both its immediate ease and eventual terribleness for the proletariat. He attributes the initial ease of the revolution to the peasants, suggesting that their involvement played a crucial role in facilitating the revolutionary process. However, he also emphasizes the long-term difficulties and challenges faced by the proletariat in the aftermath of the revolution, indicating the complex and tumultuous nature of revolutionary change.

The Russian Revolution of 1917 was a pivotal event in world history, leading to the overthrow of the Tsarist autocracy and the establishment of the Soviet Union. It was a complex and multifaceted revolution, involving various social, political, and economic forces, and its impact reverberated far beyond the borders of Russia. The revolution was deeply rooted in the social and economic grievances of the proletariat, who sought to overthrow the oppressive regime and create a more just and equitable society.

Gorter's reference to the peasants highlights the significance of their participation in the revolutionary upheaval. The Russian peasantry formed a substantial portion of the population and played a crucial role in the revolutionary process. Their discontent with the oppressive social and economic conditions under the Tsarist regime fueled their support for revolutionary change. The peasants' involvement in the revolution, particularly in the form of agrarian uprisings and land seizures, was instrumental in destabilizing the existing order and paving the way for broader revolutionary developments.

Gorter's characterization of the revolution as "easy" at the actual time of its occurrence underscores the initial momentum and apparent fluidity of the revolutionary process. This perception aligns with the sense of exhilaration and optimism that often accompanies moments of mass mobilization and social upheaval. The revolutionary fervor and the sense of empowerment experienced by the proletariat and other disenfranchised groups during the revolutionary period may have contributed to this perception of relative ease.

However, Gorter's acknowledgment of the revolution's terribleness for the proletariat in the long years of its development and after the victory reflects a more sober assessment of the revolution's aftermath. The post-revolutionary period in Russia was marked by immense social, political, and economic challenges, including civil war, famine, repression, and the consolidation of power by the Bolsheviks. The proletariat, initially hopeful for a better future, faced disillusionment and hardship as the revolutionary ideals collided with the harsh realities of governance and state-building.

Gorter's quote encapsulates the complex and contradictory nature of the Russian Revolution, highlighting the interplay of hope and disillusionment, empowerment and oppression, and the pivotal role of different social classes in shaping the course of revolutionary change. His perspective offers valuable insights into the dynamics of revolutionary movements and their long-term implications for the marginalized and oppressed. Gorter's emphasis on the role of the peasants in facilitating the revolution serves as a reminder of the diverse and interconnected forces that drive historical change and shape the outcomes of revolutionary struggles.

In conclusion, Herman Gorter's quote on the Russian Revolution provides a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities and contradictions of revolutionary change. By acknowledging the pivotal role of the peasants in facilitating the revolution and the subsequent challenges faced by the proletariat, Gorter offers valuable insights into the dynamics of social upheaval and its impact on different social classes. His perspective serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of the Russian Revolution and its profound implications for the course of history.