Kulak (Russian word meaning fist), a term introduced during the days of Stalin's rigid collectivization after Lenin's death. Its origin, however, may go back to an earlier date. It refers to the middle class of the peasant society that was blamed for the delay of the collectivization and socialization process within the Soviet system. The kulaks were sent into exile in great numbers as a warning example and to speed up the realization of the Soviet policies. The Mennonites belonging to the middle class were particularly affected by this process. (See also Concentration Camps, Russia.)

Adapted by permission of Herald Press, Harrisonburg, Virginia, and Waterloo, Ontario, from Mennonite Encyclopedia, Vol. 4, p. 1100. All rights reserved. For information on ordering the encyclopedia visit the Herald Press website.

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