The Russian Revolution: From Tsarism to Dual Power
The Rise of Opposition to Tsarism
Growing opposition to Tsarism and Russia’s archaic social structure emerged at the end of the nineteenth century. This was fueled by industrialization, which spread liberal ideas and new worker doctrines like anarchism and Marxism. A strong populist movement, known as Narodniks, took root among the people. Within this populist environment, anarchism flourished, producing prominent intellectuals like Bakunin and Kropotkin. Organizations such as “Land and Liberty” advocated for land redistribution among farmers and direct action against the autocracy.
The Emergence of Political Parties
Towards the end of the nineteenth century, liberal and democratic constitutional parties began to form, comprised mainly of the bourgeoisie. The influence of Marxism led to the founding of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party in 1898, with key figures like Georgi Plekhanov. By the early twentieth century, this party split into two factions: the Bolsheviks and the Mensheviks.
The Revolution of 1905
During the reign of Nicholas II (which began in 1894), social unrest grew due to poor living conditions, economic hardship, and corruption. The Russo-Japanese War exacerbated these issues. In January 1905, a revolutionary movement erupted, demanding better living conditions and an end to Tsarist oppression. A demonstration at the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, known as Bloody Sunday, was violently dispersed by the army. This revolution involved various political groups and even some Orthodox clergy.
Post-1905 Reforms
Following the 1905 revolution, Tsar Nicholas II implemented limited economic and political reforms. A Duma (parliament) was convened, and Prime Minister Stolypin proposed structural transformations to modernize the empire’s archaic social and political systems.
The Impact of World War I
Russia’s entry into World War I precipitated further unrest. Factories were converted for war production, and peasant conscription led to decreased agricultural output. Scarcity, rising prices, and declining purchasing power ensued. Military defeats against Germany, coupled with poor equipment and leadership, further eroded public trust in the Tsar. Plots and intrigues within the court, influenced by figures like Rasputin, added to the instability.
The Fall of Tsarism
In February 1917, popular uprisings demanding an end to the war and improved living conditions marked the first stage of the revolution. Demonstrations starting on February 23rd culminated in a general strike and military mutiny on the 27th. Soviets, or councils, were formed throughout the country. Facing immense pressure, Tsar Nicholas II abdicated. The Duma and the Petrograd Soviet established a provisional government led by Prince Lvov, promising reforms and a constituent assembly to determine Russia’s political future.
The Duality of Power
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