Crash Course European History: Lecture Notes by John Green
Introduction to World War I and Russian Revolution
World War I unleashed significant violence across Europe.
The Russian Revolution and Civil War were major events during this period.
Failures of Tsar Nicholas II's Government
Tsar Nicholas II's government failed to manage the war effort effectively.
Lack of bureaucracy led to inadequate supplies (weapons, transportation, food, medical care).
Soldiers faced severe shortages, including bullets and proper footwear.
Some generals were capable, but many were unqualified and focused on internal oppression (e.g., pogroms against Jewish troops).
Civilian Response and Local Organizations
As millions of refugees and wounded returned to Russia, zemstvas (local organizations) began to assist civilians and manage the home front.
The effectiveness of these organizations undermined faith in the imperial government.
Tsar's Incompetence
Tsar Nicholas II's decision to oversee the battlefront showcased his incompetence and lack of concern for ordinary Russians.
Widespread discontent set the stage for revolution.
International Women’s Day and Protests
On February 23, 1917 (Russian February), women protested in Petrograd (formerly St. Petersburg).
Protests were against the mismanagement of the war, inflation, food scarcity, and military defeats.
Nicholas II abdicated due to the pressure from protests and his family.
Establishment of Provisional Government
The Duma (assembly of elected representatives) formed a provisional government, including various political factions.
Workers and soldiers established Soviets for better representation.
Bolshevik Rise and Lenin’s Return
In April 1917, Lenin returned from exile with German help.
The Bolsheviks differed from Marxist ideas by advocating for a leadership cadre to drive the revolution.
Lenin’s slogans appealed to war-weary citizens: "peace, bread, land."
Coup and Power Struggles
In October 1917, the Bolsheviks executed a coup against the provisional government, seizing key infrastructures.
They called for elections but dismissed the constituent assembly when they won a minority of seats.
The Bolsheviks instigated a violent crackdown on advocates for democracy.
Treaty of Brest-Litovsk
The Bolsheviks negotiated a harsh peace treaty with Germany, leading to significant territorial losses for Russia.
Lenin initially opposed the treaty but accepted it due to military pressures.
Civil War and Red vs. White
The Russian Civil War (1917-1922) saw the Bolshevik (Red) forces fight against various opposing factions (White Movement).
The White Movement lacked unity and strong leadership, leading to their defeat.
The Bolsheviks used their organizational skills to manipulate rival factions.
Establishment of Soviet Union and Social Changes
The USSR was declared in 1922, with Stalin playing a key role in its formation.
Bolshevik promises to ethnic groups were largely unfulfilled.
Despite the violence and deprivation, socialist propaganda portrayed progress and excitement for a brighter future.
Economic Policies and NEP
The civil war resulted in high death tolls and economic collapse.
The New Economic Policy (NEP) was introduced in 1921, allowing some capitalist elements to revive the economy.
Wealth became valued, leading to the rise of the "NEP men."
Lenin’s Death and Aftermath
Lenin suffered strokes and died in January 1924.
Stalin organized a grand funeral while sidelining rivals like Trotsky, who would later be assassinated.
Conclusion
The lecture discussed the complexities and dramatic changes in Russia during this turbulent period, setting the stage for future developments in Soviet history.