The Great Famine (2011) Documentary

"The Great Famine" is a documentary recounting the little-known story of America's attempt to alleviate the 1921 Soviet Russian famine, one of Europe's worst disasters since the Middle Ages. With five million Russian deaths, Herbert Hoover led a two-year relief campaign, defying obstacles to provide aid. Initiated by a plea from Russian novelist Maxim Gorky, Hoover's American Relief Administration (ARA) played a pivotal role. American relief ships reached Petrograd in 1921, amid the aftermath of the Russian revolution. Aided by "Hoover's boys," relief workers faced hurdles such as a disordered rail system, harsh climate, and a wary Bolshevik government. Despite Communist suspicions, they aimed to feed a million children with bread, rice, and more, but challenges delayed aid, resulting in around 50,000 deaths. The scale of famine grew, prompting Hoover to expand the mission. Cannibalism surged, but Hoover doubled funding to show America's compassion and efficiency. Despite Soviet skepticism, American relief workers persisted and managed to feed 11 million citizens daily in 19,000 kitchens by August 1922. The famine ultimately claimed five million lives, but Hoover's commitment saved many more. Hoover's humanitarian work, unmatched in history, went unrecognized by Lenin's government, seen as exploitation. The Soviets closely monitored American relief efforts, viewing them as potential counter-revolutionary training. The tensions from this era would significantly impact U.S.-Soviet relations for decades.