February Revolution

• What was the condition of the Tsar's army at the start of World War One?

  It was one of the weakest in Europe.
• Why was Russia quickly overwhelmed in World War One?

  Due to superior technology of Germany and Austria-Hungary.
• What were the consequences of Russia's defeats in battles during World War One?

  Russia lost ground and cities to Germany.
• What economic struggles did Russia face during World War One?

  Low supply of food and materials.
• What was the impact of the war on Russian officers?

  They were disillusioned by severe issues.
• How were Russian soldiers equipped compared to their enemies?

  They were badly equipped compared to enemies.
• What logistical issues did Russia face during the war?

  Industry was too far from the front line.
• How many soldiers did Russia lose in World War One?

  1. 7 million soldiers.
• What were the economic effects of the war from 1915 to 1916?

  20 million civilians dead or wounded.
• What happened to Russia's army in 1917?

  It was losing badly with a shattered army.
• What could have potentially changed the outcome for Russia in World War One?

  More military support from the USA.
• What was the impact of Tsar Nicholas II dismissing General Grand Duke Nicholas?

  It resulted in a loss of confidence in the army.
• What was the state of the Russian army's leadership in early 1915?

  It was poorly led with inexperienced officers.
• What was a common issue with officer promotions in the Russian army?

  Promotions were based on family connections.
• What was the consequence of the lack of ammunition in the Russian army?

  The army was ill-equipped for a war of attrition.
• What was the inflation rate in Russia by 1915?

  Prices were five times higher than in 1914.
• What was the impact of the war on skilled workers in Russia?

  Many skilled workers joined the army.
• What was the effect of the breakdown of the railway system on Russia's war production?

  It hindered the supply of food and equipment.
• What was the situation regarding weapons shortages in 1915?

  Russia lacked sufficient rifles and machine guns.
• How did the peasants' situation change by 1915?

  Only 25% supported the Tsar.
• What caused unrest among farmers during the war?

  Army requisitioning livestock increased hardship.
• What was the impact of food shortages on the Russian population?

  It caused widespread anger and hardship.
• What did the army have to do to obtain bread for its soldiers?

  Sell its rifles.
• What was the political situation in Russia before the February Revolution?

  There was widespread disillusionment with the war.
• What triggered the February Revolution in 1917?

  Unrest and food shortages in Petrograd.
• What was the date of the general strike in Petrograd?

  24th February 1917.
• What was the outcome of the February Revolution?

  The Provisional Government was formed.
• How did the Bolsheviks initially respond to the revolution?

  They were hesitant to take control.
• Who returned to Russia in April 1917?

  Lenin returned from exile.
• What did W.H. Chamberlin say about the February Revolution in 1935?

  It was a leaderless, spontaneous revolution.
• What were the main military effects of World War One on Russia?

  • Weak army with inferior weaponry
  • Bad defeats leading to loss of territory
  • Disillusionment among officers and soldiers
  • Inept military leadership
  • Significant soldier casualties (1.7 million)
• What were the economic effects of World War One on Russia?

  • Inflation and rising prices (5x higher by 1915)
  • Decrease in industrial production (50% less oil)
  • Shortage of skilled workers
  • Government printing money led to more inflation
  • Widespread hardship and anger among civilians
• What were the political effects of World War One on Russia?

  • Growing opposition to Tsar Nicholas II
  • Criticism from businessmen and the War Industries Committee
  • Failed war economy management by the Tsar
  • Increased unrest and mutinies among soldiers
  • Tsar's refusal to concede to reforms
• What were the key misjudgments of Tsar Nicholas II?

  • Resistance to change and reforms
  • Ignoring widespread poverty and famine
  • Poor handling of the Russo-Japanese War
  • Mismanagement during World War I
  • Influence of Rasputin undermining his credibility
• What were the main causes of the February Revolution in 1917?

  • Weak political system and disillusionment
  • Food shortages and poor living conditions
  • Strikes and unrest in Petrograd
  • Soldiers joining the revolution
  • Formation of the Provisional Government
• What was the role of the Bolsheviks during the February Revolution?

  • Initially hesitant to take control
  • Pledged to end the war
  • Lenin's return from exile in April 1917
  • Internal debate before taking action
  • Emergence as a significant political force