Understanding famine through visual and digital media: western perspectives on the 1921-22 famine in Russia

M. Lomonosova, A. Bykov

Abstract


In the contemporary era, the intersection of history, technology, and the politics of memory has grown increasingly vital. Nations with technological prowess wield history as a potent tool to shape present ideologies. This dynamic has intensified ideological battles in the digital domain, where virtual policies can diverge from reality. Memory institutions, governmental and private, have harnessed digital platforms to disseminate their interpretations of history, often linked to political agendas. While these institutions hold significant sway, they remain underexplored in Russian academia. Developing post-Soviet states have established institutions such as the Polish Institute of National Remembrance and the Hungarian Historical Service to shape historical narratives. These entities emerged after the USSR's dissolution or the EU's formation, infusing an anti-Soviet stance into the politics of memory. This has led to the rise of "post-truth" journalism, distorting historical truths for narrative purposes. However, the need for similar institutions in Russia remains an underexplored topic in academic circles. Visual documents play a crucial role in sociological exploration, offering glimpses into historical realities. While often overlooked within Russia, they have been used abroad for political and ideological purposes. Addressing this void, the State Archive Service of the Samara Region published a two-volume documentary collection on the 1921-22 famine, providing a crucial resource for scholars. Russian researchers possess a distinct advantage in accessing archival materials, enabling them to counter myths and influence memory politics. Their engagement safeguards historical memory and shapes societal values. Western researchers, despite challenges, employ digital platforms extensively, influencing narratives disproportionately.

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.31312/978-5-6048848-7-4-01

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