Summary
The February/March 1917 Revolution marked the end of Tsarist Russia, driven by military failures, economic crises, and political mismanagement, culminating in Tsar Nicholas II's abdication.
- War Exhaustion — the severe impact of WWI on Russian soldiers and morale. Example: Over three million Russian casualties by 1917.
- Economic Crisis — severe food shortages and inflation affecting the Russian population. Example: Bread prices soared by 400% between 1914 and 1917.
- Political Paralysis — ineffective governance due to the Tsar's absence and poor leadership. Example: The Tsarina and Rasputin's disastrous ministerial appointments.
- Autocratic Rule — the Tsar's refusal to share power, leading to widespread resentment. Example: The Tsar's dismissal of the Duma.
- Bread Riots — protests sparked by food shortages, leading to widespread unrest. Example: Queues for bread sparked protests on International Women's Day, 23 February 1917.
- Army Mutinies — soldiers refusing to suppress protests, joining the revolution instead. Example: The Petrograd garrison's mutiny on 27 February 1917.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- War Exhaustion
- Economic Crisis
- Political Paralysis
- Autocratic Rule
- Bread Riots
- Army Mutinies
Common Confusions
- Confusing the causes of the 1905 and 1917 revolutions
- Misunderstanding the role of the Provisional Government vs. the Petrograd Soviet
Typical Exam Questions
- What were the main causes of the February/March 1917 Revolution? Military failures, economic crises, and political mismanagement.
- How did the February/March Revolution lead to the fall of the Tsar? Loss of military support and widespread protests forced the Tsar to abdicate.
- Why did the Tsar survive the 1905 Revolution but not the 1917 Revolution? The army's loyalty in 1905 vs. mutiny in 1917, and the impact of WWI.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the key causes of the 1917 Revolution
- Differences between the 1905 and 1917 Revolutions
- The impact of WWI on the fall of the Tsar
- The role of Dual Power in post-revolutionary Russia
