The Condition of Russia Before the Revolution of February/March 1917

Autocracy in Russia

• Russia was an autocracy before the revolution, meaning rule by one person with unlimited power.

Nicholas II's Weakened Authority

• Personality Issues: Nicholas believed in his divine right to rule, was stubborn, and saw advice as criticism.
• Influence of Alexandra and Rasputin: Alexandra encouraged Nicholas to heed Rasputin, who became more influential than other ministers.
  • Rasputin's reputation and rumors about Alexandra undermined Nicholas' authority.
• Relationship with the State Duma: Nicholas refused to share real power, causing frustration among those desiring a democratic government.
• Handling Russia's Problems: Nicholas and Alexandra relied on a supposed religious bond and faith in God, instead of addressing issues actively.

Formation of the State Duma

• Formed in 1906, the Duma held meetings to debate politics and legislation.

Political Opposition to the Tsar

• Main groups: Liberals, Social Revolutionaries (SRs), and Social Democrats (SDs).

World War I Impact

• Contributed to numerous defeats due to lack of weapons, ammunition, equipment, and clothing.
• Battle of Tannenberg (August 1914): 300,000 Russians killed or wounded.

Union of Zemstva

• Established to provide neglected medical facilities.
• All Russian Union of Zemstva and Cities formed in June 1915, chaired by Prince Lvov.
• Nicholas refused civilian involvement in war management, increasing liberal discontent.

Progressive Bloc

• Formed in August 1915, demanded civilian government responsibility for the war effort.
• Nicholas refused the demand, increasing discontent.

Nicholas as Chief of Armed Forces

• In September 1915, Nicholas took on this role without military experience, making him responsible for war failures.

Governing Petrograd

• Left to Alexandra, whose reliance on Rasputin was appalling to the aristocracy.

Assassination of Rasputin

• Rasputin was assassinated by Prince Yusupov in December 1916.

Economic Impact of the War

• Food Shortages and Rising Costs:
  • Labor shortages and grain hoarding led to reduced food supplies.
  • Prioritization of army supplies by rail, neglecting towns.
  • Inflation due to raised taxes and huge loans.

Social Impact

• Increased death rates among workers due to food shortages and insanitary conditions.
• Strikes in January 1917: 30,000 in Moscow, 145,000 in Petrograd.

Discontent in Russia

• Directed towards employers, landlords, and army officers.
• Expressed through strikes, unrest in the countryside, and desertions in the armed forces.

Tsar's Abdication

• Discussed due to refusal to cooperate with the progressive bloc, escalating political dissatisfaction.