Class 9 History - Chapter 2: Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution

Introduction

• In this chapter, we will discuss the French Revolution and its impact.
• There were three classes in France:
  • First and Second Class: Upper class, who had wealth and power.
  • Third Class: Common people, who demanded equality and liberty.

The French Revolution

• The third class demanded equality, liberty, and fair distribution of property.
• This demand led to the revolution in France.
• This sentiment gradually started spreading in Europe.

Ideologies in Europe

• At that time, there were different ideologies in Europe:
  • Liberals: They were against any monarchy and wanted the government to be elected by the people.
  • Radicals: They wanted majority participation in the government.
  • Conservatives: They were in favor of gradual change.

Industrial Revolution and Its Impact

• During the Industrial Revolution, people started working in factories.
• Workers were paid very low wages and faced many problems.
• Liberals and Radicals raised their voices for workers' rights.

Rise of Socialism

• Socialism means equality in society and equal distribution of property.
• Socialists opposed private property.
• Two major socialist thinkers: Karl Marx and Frederick Engels.

Russian Empire (1914)

• Under Tsar Nicholas II, Russia's empire was vast.
• Most people depended on agriculture.
• In the 1890s, railway expansion occurred.

Formation of Political Parties

• In 1898, the Russian Social Democratic Workers' Party was established.
• Bolsheviks and Mensheviks were two major factions.

First World War and Its Effects

• Due to the war, people faced problems.
• By 1917, the spirit of revolution grew.

February Revolution (1917)

• People protested against the Tsar.
• On March 2, 1917, the Tsar abdicated.
• Formation of a provisional government.

Lenin and Bolshevik Revolution

• Lenin revolted against the provisional government.
• Bolsheviks proposed ending the war, giving land to peasants, and nationalizing banks.

Civil War

• Civil war among Bolsheviks (Red), peasants (Green), and Tsar's supporters (White).
• By 1919, Bolsheviks achieved victory.

Era of Stalin

• Stalin implemented plans to improve production.
• However, several problems also arose due to this.

Conclusion

• The idea of socialism in Russia spread to many countries.
• However, Russia did not become a completely socialist country.
• The idea of socialism remains important.

Note: Study this chapter and understand the ideology of socialism.

Thank you!