World Revolution in the Dock: early Soviet political trials and internationalism, 1920-1927

A lecture by Alexandra Day (TCD) for the Centre for International History Seminar Series.

In the formative years of the Soviet project, political thinkers, activists and lawyers sought new ways of showcasing their ideas across the globe, and spreading the revolution Westward. It may come as a surprise that one of the key arenas they attempted to use for this goal was the courtroom. Taking three key political trials from the 1920s as case studies, this talk will examine how the early Soviet state tried to use political trials as a means of relating to audiences in the West, and the uncertain verdict on the relationship between revolution and the law which emerged.

The Centre for International History draws on the burgeoning insights of scholars in the past few decades that history does not stop at the border of the nation-state.  International history explores comparative approaches and uncovers transnational flows of commerce, politics, culture, and ideas. The Centre's research seminars and public events will display these methods while examining historical developments across the globe especially in the late modern period.

Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact:gearyd@tcd.ie