Module 6: Russian Revolution, part I

Russian Revolution, part I

The causes of the Russian Revolution were deeply rooted in the socio-political and economic turmoil that plagued Russia in the early 20th century. Tsar Nicholas II (the Emperor of Russia) was unable to address widespread dissatisfaction among the populace exacerbated existing grievances. The disastrous outcomes of World War I, particularly the significant Russian losses at the Battle of Tannenberg, fueled discontent among soldiers and civilians alike. The hardships of war, combined with food shortages, led to widespread bread riots in early 1917. These riots symbolized the frustration of ordinary Russians with the autocratic rule of the Tsar and the inefficiencies of the government, ultimately undermining the legitimacy of the monarchy.

The February Revolution of 1917 marked a pivotal turning point in Russian history, leading to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the establishment of a provisional government led by Aleksander Kerensky. However, this government struggled to address the pressing issues of land reform and the continuation of war, which alienated many workers and peasants. The rise of socialist sentiments during this period was significant, with figures like V. I. Lenin advocating for radical change. Lenin's call for "peace, land, and bread" resonated with a war-weary and impoverished population, setting the stage for the subsequent October Revolution. The failure of Kerensky's government to implement effective reforms ultimately paved the way for the Bolsheviks to seize power and establish a new socialist regime, profoundly transforming Russia and shaping the course of the 20th century.