February Revolution

Definition

The February Revolution refers to a series of events in 1917 that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the end of the Romanov dynasty in Russia. This revolution was part of a broader wave of revolutionary fervor across Europe, influenced by social discontent, political repression, and the economic hardships faced by the population.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The February Revolution began on March 8, 1917 (February 23 in the Julian calendar used in Russia), when women marched for bread and basic rights, leading to widespread protests.
2. Massive strikes and demonstrations spread across Petrograd (now St. Petersburg), fueled by discontent over food shortages and the high cost of living during World War I.
3. The military's refusal to suppress the protests marked a turning point, as soldiers began to side with the revolutionaries rather than the Tsar's regime.
4. Nicholas II abdicated on March 2, 1917 (March 15 in the Gregorian calendar), ending over three centuries of Romanov rule and leading to a power vacuum in Russia.
5. The revolution set the stage for the rise of the Bolsheviks later that year, ultimately resulting in the October Revolution and the establishment of a communist government.

Review Questions

• How did social and economic factors contribute to the outbreak of the February Revolution?
  • Social and economic factors played a crucial role in sparking the February Revolution. Widespread discontent due to food shortages, rising prices, and harsh working conditions created a volatile atmosphere. The ongoing strain of World War I exacerbated these issues, leading to massive strikes and protests as people demanded better living conditions and an end to autocratic rule. The culmination of these grievances led to an eruption of revolutionary fervor that ultimately forced Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate.
• Evaluate the role of the Duma in the aftermath of the February Revolution and its impact on Russian politics.
  • Following the February Revolution, the Duma attempted to fill the power vacuum left by Nicholas II's abdication. It established a Provisional Government aimed at creating a more democratic political structure. However, the Duma's limited power and inability to address pressing issues like land reform and continued participation in World War I alienated many citizens. This dissatisfaction contributed to the rise of revolutionary factions, particularly the Bolsheviks, who promised radical change.
• Assess how the February Revolution set the stage for future political changes in Russia, particularly regarding the Bolsheviks' rise to power.
  • The February Revolution was pivotal in transforming Russia's political landscape by dismantling centuries of autocratic rule. The abdication of Tsar Nicholas II created a power vacuum that allowed various political groups to vie for influence. The Provisional Government struggled with legitimacy and effectiveness, leading to widespread unrest. As discontent grew with its policies, particularly regarding war and land issues, it created an opening for the Bolsheviks. They capitalized on popular support by promising peace, land, and bread, ultimately leading to their seizure of power during the October Revolution.

Related terms

Duma: The legislative assembly in Russia, created after the 1905 Revolution, which represented a step towards more democratic governance but had limited power.

Provisional Government: The temporary government that took control after the abdication of the Tsar, aiming to establish a more democratic system but ultimately faced challenges in maintaining authority.

Bolsheviks: A revolutionary socialist group led by Vladimir Lenin that seized power during the October Revolution, following the February Revolution's initial changes.