2. Opposition to Tsarist Rule 1914-17

Question 1

What were the economic effects on Russia from WW1

Answer 1

• Cost Government 17 billion roubles
• Many of Russia important economic areas (coal mines) were captured and Russias access to Europe was blocked making trade impossible
• 15 million men went to war so there wasn’t enough labour in the fields and farms
• The government introduced prohibition but vodka sales made up 25% of tax receipts

Question 2

What were the social effects on Russia from WW1

Answer 2

• Not enough food for both the army and the cities
  → Inflation was high so more and more people struggling to buy food
  → There were 2 times as many women then men
  → The number of jobs decreased dramatically as they didn’t have enough materials to keep going.

Question 3

What were the political effects on Russia from WW1

Answer 3

• The fourth Duma was suspended in August so the government could focus on winning the war
• The Tsar took over the military so people blamed him when the war was going badly
• When the Duma began again it was very critical of the Tsarist government under the influence of Rasputin

Question 4

Why was the Tsarina so fond of Rasputin

Answer 4

The tsar and tsarinas son Prince Alexis suffered from a disease called haemophilia where his blood wasn’t able to clot. Doctors weren’t helpful so the tsarina turned to Rasputin who seemed to help Alexis. She soon became very close to him and took his advice such as who to appoint as ministers

Question 5

What were the immediate causes of the February revolution

Answer 5

• 23 Feb International Women’s day protest
• 23-25 Feb there was the Petrograd protest march and many clashes with the police
• 25 Feb Nicholas orders army to stop the unrest
• 26 Feb Soldiers open fire on protesters killing 50
• 26 Feb Pavlosky regiment refuses to obey orders
• 27 -28 Feb soldiers join workers to capture weapon stores

Question 6

What events occur on the 1 and 2 march 1917

Answer 6

• Tsar Nicholas reaches the city of Pskov
• Senior army leaders join the Tsar in Pskov and urge him to abdicate
• The Tsar agrees to abdicate in favour of his brother Michael
• Michael refuses the crown and the provisional government is formed