1.1 Problems in Russia pre 1917 Flashcards
What caused the 1905 Russian Revolution?
- Economic hardship, poor harvests led to inflation, loss of trade and unemployment
- The defeat of the Russians in the 1904 Russo-Japanese War showed the government was irresponsible
- Protests in January 1905 called for reformation
When was the Russo-Japanese war?
February 1904- September 1905
What was the Bloody Sunday Massacre?
75,000 protestors marched onto the Winter Palace led by Father Gapon.
The guards opened fire in response, killing 13 innocents.
What was the Mutiny of Potemkin? (14th June 1905)
Sailors striked onboard the Potemkin after receiving food of poor quality.
This led to a chain of events in which 2000 were killed.
What was the significance October Manifesto? (Oct 1905)
- Marked the end of unlimited autocracy in Russia
- This formed the State Duma, which was a national parliament elected by the people and could pass laws
- It also outlined improvements for individuals freedom and rights
- Revolutionaries were satisfied and so dispersed, putting less pressure on the Tsar
What were the Fundamental Laws? (April 1906)
These rules confirmed the October Manifesto but asserted the Tsar’s power over the Duma
The Tsar could now:
- Rule independently of the Duma when the Duma was not in session
- Dissolve the Duma at any point
- Appoint ministers he wanted to the council
- Made himself sole commander of the army and navy
This ultimately re-established the Tsar’s position as Supreme Leader
Political Problems pre-1917
- Tsar Nicholas II was seen as ill-suited for the role of Tsar, viewed as weak and oblivious
- Nicholas’ heir was a haemophiliac, the public feared he would die before he assumed the role of Tsar
- People felt that Rasputin was playing the Tsar like a puppet
Economic Problems pre-1917
- The working class was incredibly poor, actively striking for more pay
- The failure of the Russo-Japanese War and WW1 had left Russia in Financial Ruin
Social Problems pre-1917
- Low wages made life hard for peasants
- Nicholas decision to join WW1 was a grave mistake, the humiliating defeat lowered the morale of the people
Why did Russia join WW1 in June 1914?
The Tsar declared war on Germany to defend Serbia, (to correspond with the Pan-Slavism attitude). This was initially popular with the people too.
What name did the city of St Petersburg change to and why?
Petrograd. This is because St Petersburg was deemed too German. (the enemy).
What was the outcome of the Battle of Tannenberg?
(Aug 1914)
Russia launched an initially successful offensive on East Prussia.
However, Russian troops became separated, resulting in a major Russian defeat.
30,000 Russians were killed and 92,000 imprisoned.
It became evident from this that it would not be a quick victory which lowered morale.
Why did Russia lose WWI?
- Soldiers lacked warm clothing
- Complete lack of resources, rifles were limited to 2 between 3 and only 2-3 artillery shells were fired a day
- Lack of morale and obedience in the army
What was the consequence of the Tsar taking the Role of Commander in Chief of the Army after defeats in Galicia? (1915)
This made the Tsar solely responsible for defeats in war.
What was the outcome of the Brusilov Offensive? (1916)
Russia broke through Austria-Hungary lines on first day, permanently destroying the Hapsburg Empire.
This was a victory for Russia, but the offensive had cost 500,000-1,000,000 troops and drained Russia’s resources. This allowed Germany to stabilise the front.
