The Complex Relationship Between Britain and Russia Before World War II

The relationship between Britain and Russia was intricate, characterized by both cooperation and conflict, particularly before the outbreak of World War II. This article delves into the various dimensions of their relationship, including their interactions during the Russian Revolution and their alignment during the later stages of the war.

Pre-World War II Relations

Long before the outbreak of World War II, Britain and Russia had a complex and often tumultuous relationship. Britain had always been wary of the Russian Empire's ambitions and its expansion into Central Asia, leading to several confrontations and conflicts in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, the relationship was not consistently antagonistic. British policymakers often sought to maintain a balance of power in Europe to counteract the influence of France and Germany, sometimes aligning with Russia when it served their interests.

Britain's Stances on Communism and the Russian Revolution

As early as the 20th century, Britain had a strong aversion to communism, which was seen as a threat to the stability of the British Empire and Western liberalism. During the Russian Revolution of 1917, the British Government, much like their American counterparts, viewed the Bolsheviks with suspicion and sought to thwart their rise to power. In 1918, during the Russian Civil War, Britain sent Royal Marines to assist the White Forces in Tsarist loyalists to combat the Bolsheviks.

Operations to Save the Russian Royal Family

One of the most dramatic episodes during this period was the British effort to rescue the Russian Royal Family during the Russian Revolution of 1915-1918. Britain, under the guise of the White Forces, attempted to save the remnants of the Russian Imperial Family. During one such operation, a daughter of the Russian Royal Family was indeed rescued and brought back to Great Britain. The young woman was married to a Royal Marine Captain and settled in the Land's End area of Cornwall, a picturesque region in England, where she lived out the rest of her life.

Alignment During World War II

By the time World War II broke out, the situation had drastically changed. The Soviet Union, under Joseph Stalin, had emerged as a significant force, and Britain recognized the importance of a united European front against Nazi Germany. The policy of appeasement had failed, and Britain found itself in dire need of allies across the continent. After Germany began its blitzkrieg against Poland in 1939, Britain swiftly extended a declaration of war against Germany. In June 1941, the axis of Hitler and Stalin was shattered with the invasion of the Soviet Union by Nazi Germany. This event propelled Britain into an alliance with the Soviet Union, a relationship driven by the common goal of defeating the Nazi threat.

The Role of the US

It was not until six months later that the United States joined Britain and the Soviet Union in the Allied forces. The United States, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had long been wary of the Axis powers and began to support Britain's efforts earlier, sending supplies and equipment. However, the direct involvement of the US in the conflict did not occur until December 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan.

Conclusion

The relationship between Britain and Russia evolved significantly over the years, marked by a combination of mutual interests, ideological differences, and the changing geopolitical landscape. From their contentious dealings during the Russian Revolution to their united front in World War II, their interactions provide a fascinating insight into the complexities of international relations during a tumultuous period in history.