Russian Civil War (1917–1921).

Causes of the Russian Civil War (Political)

The Bolsheviks seized power in October 1917, overthrowing the Provisional Government, leading to widespread resistance from monarchists, liberals, and rival socialist groups.

Causes of the Russian Civil War (Economic)

Russia's economy collapsed after WWI; there were severe food shortages, inflation, and unemployment, deepening discontent among workers and peasants.

Causes of the Russian Civil War (Ideological)

Conflict between Bolshevik Communism and various opposing ideologies including monarchism, liberal democracy, and moderate socialism created deep divisions.

Causes of the Russian Civil War (Geopolitical)

The Bolsheviks’ willingness to sign the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk (March 1918) angered many, as it surrendered large amounts of territory to Germany.

Type of War

Civil war fought between the Bolsheviks (Reds) and opposition groups (Whites), including monarchists, liberals, nationalists, and foreign interventionists.

Tactics Used by the Reds (Military)

Centralized control of railways, use of former Tsarist officers under political supervision, and Trotsky’s mobile Red Army were key to their success.

Trotsky’s Role in the Civil War (Leadership)

He reorganized the Red Army, ensured discipline, and traveled via armored train to inspire troops and manage fronts.

Foreign Involvement in the Civil War (Practice)

Allied powers including Britain, France, Japan, and the U.S. supported the Whites with weapons and troops, but failed to coordinate effectively.

Impact of Foreign Involvement (Practice)

The Bolsheviks used foreign support for the Whites to present themselves as defenders of Russian sovereignty, boosting support among the population.

Mobilization of Resources (Red Strengths)

The Reds controlled key industrial areas, railways, and population centers, allowing for more efficient mobilization of troops and supplies.

White Weaknesses

Lack of unity among leaders, ideological divisions, geographic separation, and failure to gain peasant support undermined the White forces.

Red Terror (Tactics of War)

The Bolsheviks used the Cheka to arrest, torture, and execute political opponents, creating a climate of fear and eliminating opposition.

Outcome of the War

The Bolsheviks emerged victorious in 1921, consolidated power, and laid the foundation for the formation of the USSR in 1922.

Peacemaking After the War

There was no formal peace treaty; the conflict ended with Bolshevik military victory and suppression of remaining resistance.

Territorial Changes After the War

Though some regions like the Baltics and Poland gained independence, the Bolsheviks reabsorbed much of the former Russian Empire.

Short-term Political Impact

One-party rule under the Communist Party was established, with harsh repression of dissent through terror and purges.

Long-term Political Impact

The USSR was created as a centralized, authoritarian state; future leaders like Stalin built on the militarized, repressive model formed during the war.

Economic Effects

Widespread destruction of industry and agriculture, leading to famine and collapse of the economy; War Communism was introduced, followed by the NEP in 1921.

Social and Demographic Impact

Mass displacement, famine-related deaths, destruction of the old elite class, and a fractured society; millions died from war, disease, and starvation.

Status of Women

Legal reforms under the Bolsheviks promoted women’s rights (e.g., divorce, abortion), but most women remained focused on survival due to famine and hardship.