Russian Revolution & World War One Study Guide

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the Russian Revolution and World War One, including historical figures, treaties, and ideologies.

Tsar

The title of the ruler of Russia prior to World War One.

Bolsheviks

A political group that violently overthrew the provisional government of Russia and aimed to implement radical socialism.

Romanov Family

The ruling family of Russia for over three centuries until they were overthrown in 1917.

Vladimir Lenin

A charismatic leader who advocated for and led a socialist revolution in Russia and established the Soviet Union.

Rasputin

A Russian mystic whose influence on the imperial family contributed to the instability of the pre-revolutionary government.

Nicholas II

The last Tsar of Russia.

Treaty of Brest-Litovsk

The treaty that ended Russia's participation in World War One, ceding territory to the German Empire.

Treaty of Versailles

The treaty that ended World War One, requiring Germany’s total surrender and acceptance of full war responsibility.

War Guilt Clause

The clause that required Germany to accept full responsibility for World War One.

Reparations

Payments imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles to repay for war damages.

Weimar Republic

The name historians use for the interwar period of Germany.

Chancellor

The title of the German head of government, a role Hitler was appointed to in 1933.

Benito Mussolini

The leader of the Italian Fascist Party that took power in Italy in 1922.

Fascism

A political ideology that emphasizes authoritarian nationalism, militarism, and state control over society.

Lebensraum

A concept in Mein Kampf justifying the invasion and depopulation of neighboring countries for space for the German people.

Militarism

The buildup of military forces, one of the four causes of World War One.

Alliances

Agreements between nations to support each other, one of the four causes of World War One.

Imperialism

Competition for colonies and resources, one of the four causes of World War One.

Nationalism

Extreme pride in one’s country, one of the four causes of World War One.

Allied Powers

The alliance during World War One including Britain, France, Russia, Italy, and the United States.

Central Powers

The alliance during World War One including Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria.