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Comparing interpretations of Stolypin
How does Interpretation B differ from Interpretation A about Stolypin?
Explain your answer based on what it says in Interpretations A and B.
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Marking points
- 1 Identifies a relevant view of Stolypin in Interpretation A.
- 2 Identifies a contrasting relevant view of Stolypin in Interpretation B.
- 3 Explains the difference using what the interpretations say, not just provenance or own knowledge.
- 4 Develops the comparison, for example by contrasting A's criticism of repression and blocked political rights with B's praise for stability, economic improvement, or work with the Duma.
Full-mark answer
Interpretation B is much more positive about Stolypin than Interpretation A. Interpretation A presents him as someone who blocked the political rights promised in the October Manifesto and used illegal police arrests, so he lost the respect of decent people. Interpretation B, by contrast, says he worked successfully with the Duma, brought calm and peace, and helped wealth increase. The main difference is therefore that A sees Stolypin as repressive and damaging to political progress, while B sees him as a successful minister who improved Russia.
Why this answer loses marks
Interpretation B says Stolypin was a good leader.
This only gives one side. The answer must contrast B with A and explain how the views differ.