International Relations 4.13 - The collapse of the autocratic empires

When was the first Russian Revolution?

March 1917

Why was there a Russian Revolution?

Life in Russia had been bad for some time, and the War highlighted the poor training of soldiers and worse leadership of the Tsar and his generals. There was no food and government on the home front had been left to Tsarina Alexandra, who was already deeply unpopular. Riots broke out, directed at the autocratic royal family, forcing Nicholas to abdicate on March 15th, prompting the formation of a provisional government.

What was the Provisional government’s solution to conditions in Russia?

To leave the war.

Why was Russia’s departure from the war problematic for the West?

Germany was no longer fighting on the Eastern front, so could concentrate all of its efforts on the West, who were unprepared.

When was the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk?

December 1917

How did the Bolsheviks seize power?

They won support from their promise of ‘Peace, Land and Bread’, and stormed the Winter Palace in November, taking advantage of the Provisional government’s weakness.

Who led the Bolshevik Revolution?

Vladimir Lenin

What were the terms of the Treaty of Brest Litovsk?

Russia lost its territorial rights to Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Livonia and parts of White Russia. Germany and AH were given jurisdiction.

Russia had to evacuate Finland and recognise the independence of Ukraine.

Germany had the right to exploit the rich agricultural land that Russia had rescinded.

Why did Russia accept the terms, even though they were so cruel?

Many Russians only wanted a way out, and were prepared to accept anything for the fighting to stop. Lenin also believed the revolution would allow for renegotiation.

Who held the power in Germany towards the end of the First World War?

The Kaiser

What was the ‘Peace Resolution’?

On 19th July 117, a collection of left-wing politicians called a vote on negotiation with the Allies. It was passed by 212 votes to 126, but was overturned by the Kaiser.

What marked the war as unwinnable for Germany?

America’s entrance to the war in 1917

When did Bulgaria ask the Allies for a ceasefire?

24th September 1918

When did Wilson announce his 14 points?

8th January 1918

When did Germany write to America for an armistice?

30th September 1918

What were Wilson’s conditions of armistice?

The evacuation of all territory occupied by Germany

The end of submarine warfare

The guarantee that the new German government would be fully democratic with no military influence

Why did Ludendorff resign?

Because Prince Max made it clear that if the terms were rejected, Germany would have to surrender rather than negotiate an armistice.

Who was Prince Max of Baden?

Chancellor of Germany in 1918

What happened on 3rd November?

There was naval mutiny in Germany, sparking a revolution

When did the Kaiser abdicate?

9th November 1918

When was the Ceasefire on the Western Front?

11th November 1918

When did Czechoslovakia declare independence?

18th October 1918

When did Emperor Karl abdicate?

11th November 1918

What was a primary cause of the collapse of the Ottoman Empire?

Turk and Arab nationalists wanting to form their own independent states.

What was Zionism?

The movement to establish a homeland for Jewish people in Israel

When and what was the Armistice of Mudros?

31st October 1918, the Ottoman ceasefire with the allies

Why was the Russian Revolution significant?

It inspired other revolutions and inspired a reignition of Pan-Slavist movements across Europe. It also encouraged Hunarian resistance to Austria.

When did the Hapsburg empire collapse?

Late 1918

What were Western-Ottoman relations like in 1918?

Poor - there was resentment surrounding the unfulfillment of the 1915 agreements between Hussein and McMahon