6. The Provisional Gov and the Petrograd Soviet Flashcards
Why two organisations were formed after the Tsar abdicated?
The Provisional Committee - 12 members of the Duma formed an emergency committee to keep the gov going during the crisis.
The Petrograd Soviet - A committee of workers was formed to co-ordinate the strikes and to formulate the demands of the workers.
What was Order Number 1?
1st March - Petrograd Soviet issued Order no. 1, which instructed soldiers to democratise the army, giving soldiers the power to elect their own officers and to question orders. It was significant as it demonstrated the de facto authority of the Duma and ended the authority of the Tsar’s generals over the army.
How did the middle class feel about the Tsar during the February revolution?
They were unwilling to support the Tsar, they believed the monarchy was corrupt and incompetent, blaming the Tsar for the military and economic failures of 1915.
How did the abdication occur?
The mutiny of the Petrograd garrison leads Nicholas to realise the seriousness of the situation. He orders his generals to send loyal troops to Petrograd and he follows. His attempt to return to the capital is blocked by revolutionary railway workers. 150 miles outside Petrograd he hears that Army High Command favours his abdication, he agrees and favours Grand Prince Michael to take over. The next day Michael refuses after conversations with Duma members.
How did the loss of elite support effect Nicholas’ decision to abdicate?
. In 1905, Nicholas was able to reassert control as he had the support of the army but in 1917, senior generals were not prepared to support him.
. In 1905, Nicholas was able to reach a compromise with the middle class with the October manifesto. In 1917, they had lost all faith in the Tsar.
How did WW1 come into play with the military leaders decision not to support Nicholas?
The military leaders and the middle class were united in a desire to win WW1. They believed they could build on the success of the Brusilov Offensive and use the Zemgor to solve the munitions crisis. The Tsar was an obstacle to economic and military success and growth.
