The February Revolution Flashcards
What were the main causes of the February Revolution?
Long-term discontent and opposition, impact of the First World War, and immediate reasons such as the winter of 1916-17.
The February Revolution was a culmination of various factors including social unrest and political mismanagement.
When did Rasputin die?
December 1916.
Rasputin’s murder was initially hoped to stabilize the Russian government.
What was the impact of the winter weather in early 1917?
During this period, the city was struck by an abrupt and harsh onset of winter conditions—characterized by biting cold, heavy snowfall, and persistent frost. Severe winter weather affected food supplies, leading to rising prices and rationing.
This contributed to widespread discontent among the population.
What became an everyday occurrence in Petrograd in early 1917?
Strikes.
Strikes were a sign of growing dissatisfaction with the government.
What did the soldiers in Petrograd do during the February Revolution?
Mutinied and began to take sides with the demonstrators.
This shift in loyalty was disastrous for Tsar Nicholas.
What did General Krymov (a Russian army commander) inform Rodzianko in January 1917?
Many soldiers had lost faith in Nicholas and would support the Duma if it took over.
Krymov also suggested that Tsarina Alexander should be removed from politics.
Would Nicholas accept advice from Rodzianko or the Duma?
No.
Nicholas refused to accept any advice from these sources, which contributed to the crisis.
What socio-economic problems contributed to the unrest?
Lack of land for peasants, inflation, and reduced calorie intake for workers.
These issues highlighted the growing inequality and hardship faced by the population.
What was the casualty toll for Russian soldiers during WWI from 1914 to 1917?
More than 1 million Russian soldiers died.
This loss of life exacerbated public discontent with the war and the government.
What fundamental political issue weakened the Duma?
The Fundamental Laws left the Duma weak.
This lack of power hindered the Duma’s ability to effectively govern.
What was the impact of Rasputin’s influence on Russian politics?
Growing influence of Rasputin undermined the monarchy’s credibility.
His involvement in political matters was viewed negatively by many.
Fill in the blank: The calorie intake of workers fell _______ from 1914-1917.
25%.
This decline in nutrition contributed to public dissatisfaction and unrest.
Who was Rodzianko?
The president of the Duma
What political problems caused the February Revolution?
The growing influence of rasputin, along with the fundamental laws
What were the three reasons for the February Revolution?
1.) Impact of WW1
2.) Socioeconomic problems
3.) Political problems
What event pushed Russia to the edge of collapse in early 1917?
The strain of World War I.
What were the main issues faced by the people of Petrograd in early 1917?
Food shortages, inflation, and discontent.
Who informed Tsar Nicholas II about the loss of support in Petrograd on February 14?
Mikhail Rodzianko.
What action did workers at the Putilov engineering works take on February 18?
They went on strike demanding higher wages.
What significant event occurred on International Women’s Day, February 23?
Thousands of women protested food shortages and high prices.
What slogans were chanted by the demonstrators on February 23?
- Down with hunger!
- Bread for the workers!
By February 24, how many workers were on strike in Petrograd?
About 200,000.
What happened by February 25 regarding the protests?
Around 300,000 demonstrators flooded the streets.
What actions did Nicholas II take on February 26?
He ordered the army to restore order.
