Russian Revolution Key Terms

Mirs (Peasants)

Communal landholding institutions among Russian peasants that facilitated shared agricultural practices and mutual support. They played a crucial role in rural life and social organization before the revolution.

Constitutional Democratic Party

A political party in early 20th century Russia that advocated for constitutional monarchy, civil liberties, and social reforms.

Kulaks

Wealthy peasants in Russia who owned larger farms and hired laborers. They were often viewed as class enemies during the collectivization process under Stalin.

Intelligentsia

A social class in Russia comprised of educated individuals, including writers, artists, and intellectuals who were critical of the government and sought social and political reforms.

Populist

A political movement in Russia during the 19th century that aimed to represent the interests of the peasantry, promoting agrarian socialism and opposing the aristocracy and government authority.

Social Democratic Labor Party

A revolutionary political party in Russia founded in 1898 that aimed to promote socialism through organized labor and political activism, eventually splitting into the Bolshevik and Menshevik factions.

Mensheviks

Moderate faction of the RSDLP; believed in a broad, democratic party and gradual transition to socialism.

Proletariat

The working class—especially industrial workers—who, in Marxist theory, would rise up against the bourgeoisie to create a classless society.

Bourgeoise

The middle or capitalist class who owned most of society’s wealth and means of production; seen by Marxists as oppressors of the proletariat.

Emmancipation of Labor

Marxist group founded by Georgi Plekhanov in 1883; first Russian socialist organization advocating Marxist ideas and inspiring later revolutionary parties.

Zemstva

Local self-government institutions in Imperial Russia (created in 1864) responsible for local affairs like education, health, and infrastructure.

Social Revolutionary Party

Political party focused on peasant socialism; wanted land redistribution and used terrorism against the tsarist regime.

Bolsheviks

Radical faction of the RSDLP led by Vladimir Lenin; supported a small, disciplined revolutionary party and seized power in 1917.