For many young people born during the last 30 years, it can seem strange that Our Lady of Fatima specifically mentions the conversion of Russia. Until recently, there wasn't any particular reason in the last 30 years why Russia should be singled out among all the nations.
However, when put into historical context, the reason behind Our Lady's appeal to Russia begins to make more sense.
1917
During World War I, the people of Russia were starving and their economy was in shambles. Their army was no match for Germany and led to enormous casualties. This increased animosity towards the government and a desire for a solution.
Rioting erupted in Russia, including what is now called the "February Revolution" (Russia at the time used the Julian Calendar). It took place on March 8, 1917, and led to the abdication of Czar Nicholas II on March 15, 1917.
It was the beginning of an even greater movement, as it facilitated Vladimir Lenin's rise to power. Lenin was a disciple of Karl Marx and was ready to introduce his own version of Marxism in Russia, beginning with a socialist revolution.
His version of communism would devastate Russia for decades to come and would spread to many other countries throughout the world.
For example, in 1921 China adopted communism, directly influenced by the revolution that occurred in Russia.
When Our Lady of Fatima appeared on May 13, 1917, the world was aware of the February Revolution, but not of the communist rise to power that would grip the world.
Our Lady of Fatima's words
It wasn't until Our Lady appeared on July 13, 1917, that she spoke to the children at Fatima about Russia.
The little children at Fatima could have never thought of the damage the Russian government and its communist philosophy could inflict upon the world.
Yet, that is exactly what happened as World War II shattered lives and ushered in a new reign of terror under the Soviet Union.
The good news is that the future is not set in stone and we can influence the world for the better, beginning with Our Lady's call to, "penance, penance, penance!"
