Overview

Animal Farm is an allegory for the events surrounding the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the development of the Soviet Union under the authoritarian ruler, Joseph Stalin. Almost every character and event in the novel, sometimes down to the smallest details, has an allegorical counterpart in history. This handout gives students relevant background information about these events, the leaders involved, and their actions. Use this handout to ensure that students understand the relationship between Animal Farm and real-life events so they can better analyze the book’s message. Encourage students to analyze, discuss, and debate the information provided in the handout, and consider assigning research projects for students to gather more information about the events and people detailed.

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