6. The Provisional Gov and the Petrograd Soviet

Question 1

Why two organisations were formed after the Tsar abdicated?

Answer 1

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.

Question 2

What was Order Number 1?

Answer 2

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.