Notes on the Russian Revolution of 1917

Introduction

• The Russian Revolution of 1917 was a significant political and social upheaval.
• It led to the fall of the Russian Empire and the emergence of the Soviet Union.
• Comprised two major events: the February Revolution and the October Revolution.
• Driven by political corruption, economic struggles, and dissatisfaction with the monarchy.

Causes of the Revolution

Political Problems

• Unpopularity of Tsar Nicholas II’s autocratic rule.
• Lack of political reforms led to resentment.
• The Duma had limited power and influence.

Economic Struggles

• Severe economic issues caused by World War I.
• Food shortages and inflation.
• Poor wages and harsh conditions for industrial workers.

Social Unrest

• Peasants lived in poverty and had little land.
• Urban workers protested against poor conditions.
• Spread of revolutionary ideas like socialism and communism.

Military Failures

• Heavy losses and low morale due to World War I.
• Inadequate supplies and equipment for soldiers.
• High desertion rates among soldiers.

Key Events of the Revolution

Bloody Sunday (January 22, 1905)

• Peaceful protest in St. Petersburg met with violence.
• Hundreds of unarmed demonstrators killed or wounded.
• Increased anger towards the monarchy.

The February Revolution (March 1917)

• Protests and strikes in Petrograd due to food shortages.
• Army’s refusal to fire on protesters led to Tsar’s abdication.
• Establishment of a Provisional Government under Alexander Kerensky.

The October Revolution (November 1917)

• Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, overthrew the Provisional Government.
• Seizure of key government buildings in Petrograd.
• Establishment of a new Soviet government.

Civil War (1918-1922)

• Conflict between Red Army (Bolsheviks) and White Army (anti-Bolsheviks).
• Millions died due to conflict, famine, and disease.
• Bolsheviks’ victory solidified their rule.

Famous Figures of the Revolution

Vladimir Lenin

• Leader of the Bolshevik Party.
• Key figure in the October Revolution and establishment of Soviet rule.

Tsar Nicholas II

• Last emperor of Russia.
• Abdicated in 1917, executed with family.

Leon Trotsky

• Organized the Red Army.
• Crucial in Bolsheviks’ Civil War victory.

Alexander Kerensky

• Led the Provisional Government post-February Revolution.
• Failed to prevent Bolshevik takeover.

Joseph Stalin

• Bolshevik leader, later dictator of the Soviet Union.
• Gained control after Lenin’s death.

Effects of the Revolution

End of Monarchy

• Abolition of Tsarist autocracy.
• Transition to communist state under Lenin and Bolsheviks.

Establishment of the Soviet Union (1922)

• Formation of a socialist government leading to USSR.
• Implementation of strict communist policies.

Economic and Social Changes

• Redistribution of land among peasants.
• Nationalization of factories and industries.
• Elimination of private businesses under communist rule.

Civil War and Political Repression

• Years of brutal conflict post-revolution.
• Red Terror campaign against political enemies.
• Suppression of free speech and opposition.

Influence on the World

• Inspired global communist movements.
• Tensions between communist and capitalist nations, contributing to the Cold War.

Conclusion

• The Russian Revolution marked a major turning point in world history.
• It ended Tsarist rule, introduced communism, and reshaped Russia.
• Led to prolonged conflict and repression under the Soviet regime.