The state pursued active secularization. Religious schools were closed, the teaching of creeds was forbidden, and Sunday was briefly abolished as an official day of rest in favor of a continuous work week. Many clergy members became victims of political purges.

By the late 1930s, the USSR achieved near-universal literacy among the younger generation. Compulsory primary education was introduced, and the number of higher education institutions (universities and technical colleges) grew significantly. Study Resources

A powerful literary organization that enforced strict ideological conformity before being dissolved in 1932. Common Questions & Answers Based on typical assignments for this chapter: