Introduction to the Socio-Economic and Political State of Russia (Pre-1917)

Overview

• Focus on socio-economic and political conditions in Russia leading up to 1917.
• Examination of the events preceding the Russian Revolution and Civil War.

Geography of Russia

• Russian Empire covered nearly one-sixth of the world's land surface.
• Diverse climates from Mediterranean to Arctic regions.
• Population concentrated in western areas due to habitable climate.
• Population approximately 126 million by 1900.

Dominance of the Orthodox Church

• Russian society heavily influenced by the Orthodox Church.

Political Situation Pre-1917

Political Landscape

• Political parties permitted only after 1906.
• Key political parties: Octoberists, Cadets, Social Revolutionaries (SRs), Mensheviks, Bolsheviks.
• Industrialization led to poor working conditions prompting increased unionization and worker strikes.

Worker Strikes

• Between 1906-1914, significant rise in worker strikes due to poor conditions.
• 1912: 750,000 workers on strike.
• 1914: 1.45 million workers on strike.

1905 Revolution

• Triggered by Russia's defeat in the Russo-Japanese War and other political issues.
• Tsar promised changes through the October Manifesto, introducing the Duma (parliament).
• Changes were largely symbolic; Tsar retained most power.

Political Repression

• Peter Stolypin's "small reforms" led to brutal repression.
• Increase in political crimes, leading to labor camps and exile.
• Prison population rose from 98,000 (1905) to 250,000 (1913).
• Surveillance and subversion policies implemented by police.

Tsar Nicholas II

• Last Romanov monarch; ruled since 1894.
• Believed in autocracy; resistant to reforms.
• Created a cabinet, senate, and state council with no real power.
• October Manifesto reluctantly introduced; Duma had limited power.

Conclusion

• Russia faced significant socio-economic and political challenges by 1917.
• Geographic diversity exacerbated political and social issues.
• Upcoming focus on events leading to the Russian Revolution and Civil War.