Events of March 1917- Unit 2

Question 1

Duma opposing/warning:

Answer 1

• Okhrana report, 1917, ‘there is a marked increase in hostile feelings amongst the peasants’.
• Duma president, Rodzianko warned him in a telegram that ‘serious outbreaks of unrest imminent’.

Question 2

Beginning of the revolution:

Answer 2

• 18th Feb, full-scale strikes ‘Putilov steel works’.
• 23rd Feb, international women’s day strike, wanted end to war.
• 25 Feb, Petrograd paralysed by city-wide strike.

Question 3

Breakdown of order:

Answer 3

• Tsar relies on letters from Alexandra.
• Orders Khabalov (commander of Petrograd garrison) to restore order.
• Troops disobeyed, militia fought each other.
• 26 Feb, 150,000 troops deserted.
• On behalf of Duma, Rodzianko said major concessions needed to be made.
• Tsar dissolves Duma.
• 12 members disobeyed, stayed in session as ‘provisional committee’.

Question 4

Opposition growing:

Answer 4

• Kerensky calls for Tsar to abdicate.
• 27th Feb, first meeting of ‘Petrograd Soviet of soldiers, sailors, workers and deputies’ gathered at Tauride Palace.
• Petrograd Soviet and Provisional Committee became ‘de facto’ gov of Russia.

Question 5

Tsar’s abdication:

Answer 5

• Rodzianko said only Nicholas’ personal abdication could save the monarchy.
• Nicholas on train to Petrograd, intercepted by troops who told him to abdicate.
• Signed decree of abdication 2nd March.
• Cousin Grand Duke Michael offered Tsardom, unwilling.
• End of Tsardom, replaced with Provisional gov.