Russian Political Authority and 1917 Revolution: Tsar, War, and Social Unrest

Which dynasty ruled Russia in 1917 and for how long?

The Romanov dynasty; they had ruled for 304 years (since 1613).

What was Nicholas II's core belief about government?

Autocracy. He believed he had a divine calling to uphold absolute power without concessions.

Who was the tutor that instilled the 'moral correctness of autocracy' in Nicholas II?

Konstantin Pobedonostsev.

How did Nicholas II deal with political opposition before 1917?

He used the Okhrana (secret police) to crush dissent and restricted the powers of the State Duma.

Describe Nicholas II's temperament regarding political affairs.

Naturally shy and awkward; he found political details boring and struggled to make clear decisions.

How many men did Russia mobilize between 1914 and 1917?

Around 12 million men, mainly conscript peasants.

Which 1914 battle resulted in 300,000 Russian casualties?

The Battle of Tannenburg in East Prussia (August 1914).

What logistical failures hindered Red Army soldiers at the Front?

Lack of rifles (sometimes 2 for every 3 men), basic warm clothing, and waterproof footwear.

What disastrous decision did Nicholas II make in September 1915?

He took the role of Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy, making himself personally responsible for military failures.

How many Russian soldiers had deserted by the end of 1914?

1.5 million.

By what percentage did the cost of living rise in Petrograd by 1917?

300 per cent.

Why did food supplies to towns collapse during the war?

A shortage of workers in fields, peasants hoarding grain, and a railway system prioritized for the military.

How cold did temperatures get in the winter before the revolution?

35 degrees below zero, worsening fuel and food shortages.

How many workers went on strike in Petrograd in January 1917?

145,000 workers (on the anniversary of Bloody Sunday).

What term described the rapid changing of ministers in 1915-16?

Ministerial leapfrog; there were 4 Prime Ministers and 6 Interior Ministers in two years.

Why was Grigorii Rasputin's influence so damaging to the Tsar?

He meddled in political appointments while the Tsar was away; his 'debauched' reputation discredited the monarchy.

Why was Tsarina Alexandra distrusted by the public?

She was German-born and accused of being a spy sabotaging the war effort.

What was the 'Progressive Bloc' and what did it demand in 1915?

A group of over half the Duma deputies who demanded a 'government of public confidence' (constitutional monarchy); Nicholas II refused.

What specific news on February 22 triggered street riots?

News that bread would be rationed starting March 1.

What happened on February 23, 1917?

International Women's Day; women textile workers led a march that joined striking workers from the Putilov Steel Works.

Why was the Petrograd Garrison mutiny decisive?

Soldiers (mostly young reservists) refused to fire on crowds and instead joined them, arming the people with 40,000 rifles.