What did the Decree on Freedom of Conscience (1918) do in practice?

• A. Restricted the power of the Orthodox Church, nationalized church property, and promoted secular education and atheism.
• B. Restored church privileges, allowed church ownership, and promoted religious education.
• C. Dismantled the church entirely and banned religious practice.
• D. Encouraged religious instruction in public schools.

Answer: (A)

The decree tests understanding of how the new Soviet state redefined religion: it aimed to separate church from state while limiting religious power. In practice, this meant the church lost its leverage in public life—its property was nationalized and brought under state control, cutting the church’s wealth and autonomy. Education also moved into secular, state hands, reducing or ending religious instruction in schools. Individuals could practice worship, but religious organizations no longer enjoyed the privileges they once had, and secular, atheistic orientations were promoted in public life. This combination shows how freedom of conscience was paired with strong state supervision of religion and a push toward secularism and atheism.