"Counter-revolution" is a historical term that determines the process of fighting the revolution and the social system created by it. In order to understand the meaning of this definition, it is necessary to consider it from the point of view of the historical context.
What is counter-revolution: definition
There are many different interpretations of the definition of "counter-revolution." According to Ushakov’s famous Russian dictionary, counter-revolution is a social and political movement that aims to destroy the consequences of the revolution and restore the pre-revolutionary system in society.
The dictionary of the Russian language Ozhegova represents the definition of "counter-revolution" as an active activity of the rivals of the revolution in the struggle to establish public order.
The etymologically described term is borrowed from the French language, in which it looks like contre-revolution.
Examples of counter-revolutions in history
The first full-fledged counter-revolutionary historical processes, having a feudal character, originated in Europe as a reaction to the revolutionary overthrow of the monarchs. Examples of such events are the English restoration of the Stuart dynasty (1660-1688), as well as the restoration of the Bourbon dynasty in France (1814-1830). The success of these counter-revolutions is due to the ill-conceived actions of the revolutionary bourgeoisie. Moreover, these forces went over to the side of the counter-revolutionary representatives, who offered them conditions for beneficial cooperation.
One of the most famous examples of counter-revolution is the struggle of white generals against the red power in the era of the Civil War in Russia in the first half of the 20th century. The revolutionary overthrow of Russian power and the abolition of the institution of the monarchy are factors under the influence of which an active counter-revolutionary movement of the White Guards formed. However, as in the case of the European counter-revolutionaries, the attempt to overthrow the revolutionary order ended in failure.
Internal and external counter-revolution
Counter-revolution as a historical process can be classified according to internal and external orientation. Internal is a process carried out within the framework of a certain state using various forms and methods: from rebellions and conspiracies to inciting civil wars.
Counter-revolution of external origin is characterized by an international orientation. This means that pressure on the revolutionary regime occurs under the influence of external factors. Historically, international counter-revolutionary organizations were created. For example, the “Holy Alliance” was created as an instrument of reaction to the revolutionary politics of France in the 19th century.