February Revolution - Causes and Consequences

Question 1

Why did the February Revolution happen?

Answer 1

There was anger towards the Tsar. The severe winter of 1916-17 led to a shortage of food. In Early 1917, there were revolts against him.

Question 2

Immediate Causes of the February Revolution

Answer 2

There was discontent towards the unsuccessful leadership of Tsar. Food shortages in major cities happened as the government focused on only transporting military supplies. Workers were out of work. During the 23rd of February 1917, women joined in protest led by striking workers.

Question 3

How did the Rationing of Bread affect the February Revolution?

Answer 3

1/4 million Russians marched the streets regarding the rationing of bread that would start on the 1st of March. There were too many Russians for the police to deal with. There were also clashes between the police and the army. Police were ordered to stop unrest on the 25th of February, killing 50 citizens in the Second Bloody Sunday.

Question 4

Army Mutiny (26th February 1917)

Answer 4

Soldiers from the Pavlovsky Regiment refused to fire on protestors. Soldiers joined with workers to break into weapon stores in Petrograd. They released political prisoners and attacked the police station. The police force was too small to put down the combined 400,000 demonstrators consisting of the Army and Protestors.

Question 5

Abdication of the Tsar

Answer 5

On 2nd of March, the army officers and members of Duma pressured the Tsar to abdicate. He abdicated in favor of his brother, Michael. In Spring 1917, Russia became a republic.

Question 6

Setting up of the P.G

Answer 6

The P.G was set up by 12 Duma representatives. Led by Prince Lyov. The P.G would last until elections took place after 6 months. The P.G allowed freedom of speech, press and assembly, the release of political prisoners and more.