The founders of the Soviet Union considered education one of the most important functions of the state. The teaching of the young, from the moment they first set foot in a school, was designed to make them into patriotic and loyal citizens. The proper books and articles, created by stateapproved writers, would guard them against the influence of communism's many enemies, both at home and abroad. Memorizing slogans favorable to Lenin and his works would inspire them to carry on his revolution— always an unfinished business—in their homes and in their future places of work.

Lenin and his successors required that all children attend school. They also made universal literacy a key goal of the Communist state. As a result, the revolution opened up new opportunities and avenues of expression for millions of people. Education allowed the sons and daughters of farmers and ordinary laborers...