Involvement of the Sverdlovsk Region in the Restoration of Donbass in 1943–1945 (Based on the Materials of the Newspaper Uralsky Rabochy)

Abstract

Using the materials of the regional newspaper Uralsky Rabochy, the author studies the assistance that was provided by Sverdlovsk workers to the liberated regions of the Soviet Union, Donbass in particular, during 1943–1945. The paper is relevant in view of the current international political situation. The information presented demonstrates the importance of fulfilling this task both on a national and on a regional scale. The article highlights the measures that were taken by the party organs in order to mobilize workers and intensify the production of machines, units and mechanisms aimed at restoring the destroyed economy of the liberated regions. Further, examples of labour heroism of the Ural workers are considered, such as the “front-line brigades”, patronage of factories and work above the target due to the mobilization of internal resources. For the most part, assistance was provided by such industrial giants as the Ural Turbine Works and the Ural Heavy Machinery Plant. In addition, the scientific potential of the region was exploited. It is pointed out that impressive results were achieved due to early planning of restoration measures as well as the development of new construction techniques and equipment. A special role in this process was played by Sverdlovsk Mining Institute. The general public also provided some assistance. A conclusion is drawn that the difficulties faced by the enterprises were not concealed; on the contrary, they were given publicity in the periodical press in order to quickly resolve the issues. A number of publications document instances of early completion of work, often due to mobilization and lowering production costs. Feedback received by the Ural work teams from Donbass residents is emphasized. Restoration of this region stayed a high priority until the end of 1945; assistance was rendered as part of the commitments expressed in reports and letters to Stalin. Publication statistics for the period under study is presented and analysed.