Russia 1914-1917

Before the Revolutions

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (1)

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (1)

Stolypin’s measures effective in restoring order in the countryside

Reform to build up Kulak class inspired but effects were limited

Dumas limited in powerLittle done to win loyalty from urban poorLena Goldfields massacre (1912)

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (2)

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (2)

Some argue that Russian society fragmenting after 1861- rural society breaking down

Little link between urban workers & new urban middle classes

Bolshevik party was stronger than ever, working classes politically conscious

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (3)

How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (3)

Other historians argue that Bolsheviks were not in such a strong position – militants likely to distrust middle class intelligentsia

Great strides made in the economy – over 8% growth in the 1890s, between 1906-1913 6%

BUT growth not uniform – Russia not performing well against other economies

1913 industry=only 20%national income & only 18% Russians were urban

Russia was largest debtor nation by 1914

Russia & the WarRussia & the War

Can be argued that performance in War was not as bad as first thought

But Russian Home Front was first to collapsePoor decisions by government over taxation – policies

led to inflationTsar refused to listen to advice – connection with

Rasputin undermined tsarist authorityLoyalty of the Army fadedAny positive successes undermined by military failure

Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (1)

Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (1)

Tsar abdicated – power passed to Provisional Govt – revolution quite spontaneous

‘Dual’ power in Petrograd but neither really in control Prov govt continued with War & was then overthrown in

OctoberSoviets argued that Bolsheviks already important in

creating climate of discontentLenin’s return critical

Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (2)

Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (2)

Chernov hesitantKerensky’s influence faded – attacked by both Left &

RightImportance of Lenin – a practical & flexible politicianSoviets argue that 2nd Revolution was inevitableEssentially rising of masses but guided by the

BolsheviksSuccessful because there was a power vacuum