Russian Revolutions of 1917: February to October

The February Revolution: Seeds of Change in Russia

The circumstances of World War I in Russia created the conditions for a revolutionary explosion. Neither the economy nor the Russian political and military organization were ready for such a long, hard, and costly war. Consequently, military disasters occurred. The mobilization of millions of farmers led to a decline in agricultural production, at a time when most economic resources were devoted to the war. Therefore, hunger appeared in the cities, and unrest spread among workers and peasants. All of this discredited Tsar Nicholas II and his Government.

The population was demoralized and began to organize soviets, or councils of workers, peasants, and soldiers, which required the removal of the Tsar, an end to the war, and the abolition of autocracy. The political opposition to the Tsar took advantage of the situation and demanded his abdication.

The Fall of Tsarism: February 1917

In February 1917, a revolution broke out in St. Petersburg which brought down Tsarism. It led to a Provisional Government headed by Kerensky and supported by liberal parties of the Duma. This government began a series of reforms. Russia became a democratic republic.

The October Revolution: Bolshevik Seizure of Power

The slow pace with which land reform was carried out and Russia's continued involvement in the war led to increased popular discontent and the growing influence of the Bolsheviks. The Bolsheviks wanted to overthrow the Provisional Government and establish socialism.

The Bolsheviks aspired to the formation of a government of workers and peasants' soviets. In their program, they promised:

• Peace
• Distribution of lands
• Management of factories by workers
• Nationalization of banking and transportation media

On October 25, the Bolshevik-driven Soviets revolted, and in 10 days, they seized power and dismissed the Provisional Government. Lenin formed a workers' government.

New Revolutionary Measures and Consequences

The new government established revolutionary measures:

• Land was expropriated and distributed to the peasants.
• Factories were placed under the control of workers' committees.

Furthermore, peace was signed with Germany via the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, which resulted in Russia losing significant territory.