Dalstroy and labour productivity in the gold mining industry of the USSR: an attempt of comparative analysis

This paper explores the issue of labour productivity in the gold mining industry of Dalstroy (Far North Construction Trust) in 1932-1956. Basing on published and archival materials, the author determines the productivity indicators of Dalstroy, analyzing them in conjunction with the available data in the ordinary sector of the gold mining industry of the USSR (Glavzoloto) and with the indicators of the world’s leading gold-mining countries, such as the USA, Canada and South African Union. In addition, the article provides an assessment of the forced labour factor in the Dalstroy production system and its efficiency.