General assemblies of personnel as a part of self-government on the ships of the Baltic Fleet in July and August of 1917

Abstract

The article is devoted to the evolution of the functioning and status of a part of selfgovernment of the Baltic Fleet naval sailors – general assemblies – in the period of intensified political struggle in the summer of 1917. In the conditions of the February Revolution representative bodies took upon themselves the entire internal life of military service of ships’ crews. At the same time, a number of important issues was in charge of the staff meetings. During the period under review, general meetings became an alternative authority in relation to the committees, and in some cases even enjoyed great prestige. Such a situation allowed team members to take a real part in resolving issues of concern to them, which led to a further increase in the influence of meetings. By the end of the summer of 1917, general assemblies represented a serious force, which had the opportunity to take control of the entire ship’s life.