Nicky II Opposition 09-14

Question 1

Describe the role of Marxist parties in opposition 06 -14

Answer 1

• SD’s suffered heavily from secret police. Lack of secret printing presses made organisation difficult and Lenin did not exersice effective control
• Revival in Bolsheveik fortunes in 1912 - 14, took over many legal labour insitutions, gained 6 deputies in 4th duma. Pravada launced in April 1912 had higher circulation than menchivik equilvalent. However growing support for ideals was limited
• War in 1914 diminished support due to patriotic ferver. Considered unpatriotic party

Question 2

Describe the role of the workers in opposition 06 -14

Answer 2

• Large numbers voted in duma elections, however Stolypin changed electoral system and workers excluded
• Were calmed by some state reforms like sickness and injury insurance (1912). However unions continued to be restricted and workers continued to strike, with 2000 in 1912
• Danger was less than it seemed, General strike in 1914 only brought out 1/4 of the labour force

Question 3

Describe the role of Peasants in opposition 06 -14

Answer 3

• Peasant oppostion dramatically reduced. Due to execution and exile as well as agrarian reform. Little evidence of anti-tsar sentiment in 1914
• Fundamentals of autocracy remained strong. orthodox church mained strong influence

Question 4

Describe the role of liberals in opposition 06 -14

Answer 4

• Celebration of October manifesto shortlived, displeased at the complex electoral colleges favouring aristocracy and wealthy
• Kadets won the most seats but heavily opposed the tsar so many were arrested and barred from standing again
• Posed little threat, infighting between elected groups moved focus away from autocracy.