Meaning: This quote by Clement Attlee, the British Prime Minister from 1945 to 1951, is a humorous and thought-provoking statement that draws a parallel between the origins of Russian Communism and the historical figures of Karl Marx and Catherine the Great. To fully understand the context and implications of this quote, it's essential to delve into the history of Russia, the ideology of Communism, and the influence of Karl Marx.

Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, and political theorist, is widely regarded as the father of Communism. His theories on socialism, capitalism, and the class struggle formed the basis of Marxist ideology, which became the theoretical foundation for many socialist and communist movements around the world. Marx's seminal work, "The Communist Manifesto," co-authored with Friedrich Engels, outlined the principles of communism and called for the overthrow of the capitalist system.

On the other hand, Catherine the Great, also known as Catherine II, was the Empress of Russia from 1762 until 1796. She is remembered for her ambitious efforts to modernize and westernize Russia, expanding its borders and promoting education and the arts. However, she was also known for her autocratic rule and the suppression of dissent, which contrasts with the ideals of communism that advocate for the abolition of hierarchy and the empowerment of the working class.

Attlee's statement characterizes Russian Communism as the "illegitimate child" of Marx and Catherine the Great, implying that it is a product of both Marxist ideology and the historical context of Russia, particularly its autocratic traditions. The juxtaposition of Marx, a revolutionary thinker advocating for the liberation of the proletariat, with Catherine the Great, a powerful monarch associated with absolute rule, highlights the complex and contradictory nature of Russian Communism.

The historical backdrop of Russia played a significant role in shaping the evolution of Communism in the country. The Russian Revolution of 1917, which led to the overthrow of the Tsarist autocracy and the establishment of the Soviet Union, marked a pivotal moment in the history of Communism. The Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin and later Joseph Stalin, implemented Marxist principles in the creation of a centralized, one-party state that sought to industrialize and collectivize the economy.

The quote by Attlee can be interpreted as a witty commentary on the fusion of Marxist ideology with the authoritarian traditions of Russian history, resulting in a unique form of Communism that diverged from Marx's original vision. While Marx envisioned a classless society based on common ownership and democratic control of the means of production, the reality of Russian Communism under the Soviet regime was marked by centralized state control, suppression of dissent, and the cult of personality around leaders such as Stalin.

In conclusion, Clement Attlee's quote encapsulates a nuanced perspective on the origins of Russian Communism, highlighting the synthesis of Marxist ideology and the historical legacy of autocratic rule in Russia. By invoking the names of Karl Marx and Catherine the Great, Attlee draws attention to the complex interplay of ideas and historical forces that shaped the development of Communism in Russia. This quote serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of political ideologies and the ways in which they are influenced by the specific contexts in which they emerge.