The "Red Terror" refers to a campaign of political repression and violence that occurred in Russia during the early years of the Bolshevik regime, particularly from 1918 to 1922. It was initiated by the Bolshevik government in response to perceived threats from counter-revolutionaries, political opponents, and various factions during the Russian Civil War. The campaign involved mass arrests, executions, and the establishment of the Cheka, a secret police organization tasked with eliminating dissent. The Red Terror aimed to consolidate power and instill fear among the population to suppress opposition. Thousands of people, including former government officials, members of the White Army, and ordinary citizens, were targeted. This period significantly shaped the political landscape of Soviet Russia and set a precedent for state-sponsored violence in the years to come.