The political problems of tsardom in wartime

What was the initial public reaction to Tsar Nicholas II’s decision to go to war in 1914?

The decision was popular and supported by a wave of anti-German sentiment. Strike activity ceased, and extremists were imprisoned for their lack of patriotism.

What significant change did the Duma make after voting for war credits in 1914?

The Duma dissolved itself, declaring it did not t want to burden the country with unnecessary politics during wartime.

What were the consequences of the Battle of Tannenberg in 1914 for Russia?

The battle resulted in 300,000 Russian casualities and many prisoners, marking a disastrous defeat for the Russian army.

How did the spirit of national solidarity change as the war progressed?

Initial victories were overshadowed by defeats, and military incompetence led to increased discontent in the Russian capital.

What was the response to the tsarist government’s war organization?

The zemstva established a ‘Union of Zemstva’ to provide medical facilities, opposing the military’s control over civilian matters.

What initiative did factory owners and businessmen take during the war?

They established the congress of representatives of industry and Business to help coordinate production.

What was the zemgor, and who chaired it?

The Zemgor was the All-Russian Union of Zemstva and cities, chaired by Prince Lvov, aiming to assist in the war effort but excluded from direct influence.

What was the ‘Progressive Bloc’ and did it demand from the Tsar in 1915?

Formed by deputies from the Fourth Duma, it demanded a ‘government of public confidence,’ effectively seeking a constitutional monarchy.

What decision did Nicholas II make in September 1915, and why was it disastrous?

Nicholas took on the role of Commander-in-Chief, but lacked military experience, making him more responsible for war failures and distancing him from Petrograd.

How did Rasputin and the Tsarina Alexandra affect political appointments during the war?

Rasputin meddled in political decisions, and rumours of Alexandra’s sabotage (she was German) further damaged the Tsar’s reputation, leading to frequent ministerial changes.

How did Russia’s involvement in the Balkans contribute to the outbreak of WW1?

Backing Serbia against Austria-Hungary, Russia’s mobilization led to conflict with Germany and Austria-Hungary, drawing it into the war.

What did President of the Fourth Duma, Mikhail Rodziana, warn the Tsar about?

He warned Nicholas about Rasputin’s unpopularity and the damage he was causing to the Tsarist cause.

The events leading to Rasputin’s murder in 1916?

Prince Yusupov and Vladmir Purishkevich poisoned, shot, and finally drowned Rasputin to ends his influence over the Tsar and Tsarina.

What was the outcome of Rasputin’s murder for the monarchy?

The murder failed to quell growing discontent and did little to improve the monarchy’s reputation.

How did Nicholas II respond to political demands during the turmoil of 1917?

He remained largely unaware or unconcerned about political demands, focusing more on personal matters like his children’s health.