topic 4

What was the Provisional Government?

A temporary government set up after the February Revolution to run Russia until a Constituent Assembly was elected.

Who became the Prime Minister of the Provisional Government?

Prince Lvov

What major problem did the Provisional Government face regarding power?

heavily reliant on PS, ongoing WW1 issues, lacked credibility

What was Order No. 1?

A decree that called on soldiers to return to their barracks and obey their commanding officers, but allowed units to elect representatives to the Soviet.

What was the Petrograd Soviet?

A council made up of workers, soldiers, and sailors that represented the interests of the working class and soldiers.

What was the significance of the Tauride Palace?

It housed both the Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet after the February Revolution (was previously housing the Tsar etc)

What was the main composition of the Petrograd Soviet?

It was primarily made up of Mensheviks and Socialist Revolutionaries (SRs). along w/ workers, soldiers, sailors, 2/3 soldiers

What was the Ispolkom?

It was the executive committee that took charge of real decision-making within the Soviet.

What was the relationship between the Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet?

The Provisional Government was seen as a figurehead, with real power lying with the Petrograd Soviet.

Why did the Soviet not seize power after Feb 1917?

Leaders believed it was not the right time for a workers' government and feared losing support from the middle class and army commanders.

What reforms were introduced by the Provisional Government?

Reforms included amnesty for political prisoners, abolition of capital punishment, and freedom of speech and assembly.

What was revolutionary defencism?

A policy by the Soviet pledging not to make a separate peace with Germany and to defend Russian territory against invading armies.

What challenges did the Provisional Government face?

High public expectations, dual authority with the Soviet, ongoing war, and economic problems.

What was the dual authority in Russia after the February Revolution?

The Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet.

Who was Irakli Tsereteli?

A Menshevik and influential member of the Soviet Ispolkom who returned from exile in March 1917.

What was the impact of the February Revolution on soldiers?

Soldiers were initially happy as they would not be sent to the front lines and gained rights such as the right to strike.

What was the role of the Committees of Public Organizations?

They were multi-party bodies run by zemstvo members to represent workers' interests.

What was the significance of the election process in the Petrograd Soviet?

Elections were rough with no fixed terms, allowing members to be recalled and replaced at any time.

How did the Provisional Government attempt to maintain control over the army?

By issuing Order No. 1, which restricted their ability to issue orders that contradicted the Soviet.

What was the main concern of the Soviet regarding the Provisional Government?

That the Provisional Government might abuse its authority.

What was the public's initial reaction to the Provisional Government?

'Honeymoon Period' but this was short-lived as expectations were not met. soldiers pleased as not sent back to war, workers can strike, trade unions, factory committees.

What did the Provisional Government control?

It controlled the railways, telegraph stations, and the administration of the capital's affairs.

What was the main ideological conflict between the Provisional Government and the Soviet?

The Provisional Government was focused on democracy and land issues, while the Soviet was interested in social reform and alternate leadership.

What was the outcome of the negotiations between the Provisional Government and the Soviet?

The question of the war was left alone as it was divisive, leading to the policy of revolutionary defencism.

What was the public's perception of the Provisional Government's ministers?

They were often viewed as out of touch and bourgeois, leading to a lack of faith in their leadership.

Who was FM Milyukov and what was his stance on the war?

FM Milyukov wanted Russia to continue the war until Germany was defeated and sought control of Black Sea and Mediterranean territory post-war.

What was the significance of the Declaration of War Aims released by the Prov Gov?

It affirmed the commitment to the war while insisting on leaving territory belonging to other countries, which was pressed by the Petrograd Soviet.

What event caused clashes in the streets on April 21?

The leak of Milyukov's telegram, where he insisted on a 'conclusive victory' and separated himself from revolutionary defense.

What was the outcome for Milyukov after the April clashes?

Milyukov was forced to resign, and Kerensky took over as Minister of War.

What was the significance of the events following Milyukov's resignation?

It showed the extent of Soviet power and the weakness of the Prov Gov, marking the end of dual authority.

What was Lenin's situation while in exile?

Lenin was outraged by the accommodationism of Stalin and Kamenev and decided to return to Russia.

How did Lenin manage to return to Russia?

The Germans allowed him to travel in a sealed railway carriage through Germany to avoid arrest.

What were the main ideas presented in Lenin's 'Letters from Afar'?

It discussed international class conflict and rejected cooperation with the bourgeoisie.

What was the outcome of the Prov Gov's offensive in the summer of 1917?

The offensive was a failure, leading to high desertion rates and worsening conditions for soldiers.

What were the economic conditions in Russia during the Prov Gov's rule?

There were high levels of inflation, unemployment, and food shortages, leading to widespread discontent.

What were the July Days and their significance?

The July Days were marked by a loss of control by the Prov Gov, increased Soviet power, and radical actions by workers and soldiers.

What was Kerensky's response to the July Days?

Kerensky attempted to rally patriotism and enthusiasm for the war but ultimately failed to stabilize the situation.

What happened during the Kornilov Revolt?

Kerensky's indecisiveness and failure to control inflation and land policy led to the revolt, further destabilizing the Prov Gov.

What was the impact of inflation on workers' wages in 1917?

While wages increased, they were outpaced by inflation, leading to increased strikes and worker unrest.

What was the basic assumption regarding land ownership during the revolution?

Land belongs to those who work on it, leading to widespread land seizures by peasants.

What was the role of factory committees during the revolution?

Elected bodies that advocated for workers' rights and demands during the revolution.

What was the response of peasants regarding land after the February Revolution?

Peasants were eager to take land, leading to increased land seizures despite the Prov Gov's reluctance to concede.

Who was Kerensky and what were his political views?

Kerensky was a lawyer and politician who did not favor Marxism or terrorism and was generally liked for his oratory skills.

What was the significance of the Bolshevik leaders' arrests during the July Days?

The arrests weakened the Bolshevik movement temporarily and forced Lenin to flee back to Finland.

What was the outcome of the July Days for the Prov Gov?

The Prov Gov lost control, leading to increased Soviet power and the eventual rise of the Bolsheviks.

What did Trotsky do during the July Days?

Trotsky flattered soldiers and sailors and attempted to incite a seizure of power from the Prov Gov.

What was the impact of the July Days on the Bolshevik Party?

The July Days initially harmed the Bolshevik Party, leading to arrests and the closure of their newspaper, Pravda.

What was the reaction of the military during the July Days?

There was a significant increase in desertion and unrest among soldiers, with many wanting to return home.

What did the economic situation in Russia look like in terms of food prices?

Food prices skyrocketed, with pork rising 770%, a dozen eggs 443%, and bread 500%, while wages barely matched inflation.

What was the political landscape of the Prov Gov after the July Days?

The Prov Gov was fragile, with increasing splits between moderate and left-wing factions, leading to instability.

What was the main reason for the peasant rebellion during the February Revolution?

The Provisional Government (PG) failed to uphold property rights and did not address land issues.

What did the Provisional Government do regarding grain prices?

They paid sellers at fixed prices that did not keep up with inflation, leading to hoarding.

What significant event occurred in August 1917?

The Kornilov Revolt, where General Kornilov attempted to impose martial law.

Who was the Minister of War in the Provisional Government after the February Revolution?

Alexander Kerensky.

What was Lenin's main argument for the Bolsheviks to seize power?

He believed they had to act before the All-Russian Congress of Soviets and the elections for the Constituent Assembly.

What was Trotsky's role during the October Revolution?

He was the chairman of the Military Committee of the Petrograd Soviet and directed the Red Guards.

How did the Bolsheviks present their seizure of power?

As an irreversible act of 'All Power to the Soviets' to legitimize their authority.

What was the outcome of the October Revolution in terms of casualties?

Only 6 deaths were recorded during the three days of the revolution, all among the Red Guards.

What were the four problems identified that provoked the revolution?

1) Dislike for the Tsars, 2) Soldiers dying, 3) Starvation, 4) Nicholas II's refusal to change.

What was the Bolshevik view of the October Revolution?

They viewed it as a popular uprising led by the working class, supported by peasants.

What was the Western view of the October Revolution post-1945?

It was seen as a coup d'état that imposed totalitarianism on an unwilling population.

What was the Red Terror?

A campaign of political repression and violence carried out by the Bolsheviks from 1918 to 1921.

What was the main reason for the Bolsheviks' victory in the Civil War?

Their clear aim to maintain power and the disunity among their opponents, the Whites.

Who were the Whites in the context of the Russian Civil War?

A coalition of anti-Bolshevik forces, including liberals, former tsarists, and nationalists.

What was the role of the Cheka during the Bolshevik regime?

They acted outside the law to suppress opposition and enforce Bolshevik policies.

What significant military formation was established by the Bolsheviks in 1918?

The Red Army.

What was the significance of the Second Congress of Soviets in October 1917?

It was where Lenin declared all power to the Soviets, marking a pivotal moment in the revolution.

What did Lenin mean by 'History will not forgive us if we do not assume power'?

He emphasized the urgency for the Bolsheviks to seize power before the political situation changed.

What was Trotsky's strategy for the October Revolution?

He planned the takeover by controlling key infrastructure and mobilizing the Red Guards.

What was the impact of the Kornilov Revolt on the Bolsheviks?

It showcased the political weakness of the PG and increased support for the Bolsheviks.

What did Lenin advocate for regarding land during the revolution?

He recognized the peasants' right to seize land, which shifted their support towards the Bolsheviks.

What was the Bolshevik slogan that encapsulated their promises?

Land, Peace, Bread.

What was the role of Kerensky after the February Revolution?

He became the Minister of War and later the leader of the Provisional Government.

What was the fate of the Tsar and his family during the Civil War?

They were executed by Bolshevik forces in July 1918.

What was the significance of the film 'Oktabyr'?

It dramatized the events of the October Revolution and contributed to the Bolshevik myth-making.

What was the role of the Red Guards during the October Revolution?

They were the armed wing of the Bolsheviks, responsible for storming the Winter Palace.

What was the outcome of the municipal elections in July 1917?

SRs received 58%, Mensheviks 12%, Bolsheviks 11%, and Kadets 17%.

What was the outcome of the municipal elections in September 1917?

Bolsheviks gained 51%, SRs dropped to 14%, Mensheviks to 4%, and Kadets to 20%.

What was the command of Denikin during the Civil War?

Denikin commanded the South Russian Army in Kiev.

What significant event occurred in Odessa in 1919?

France evacuated Odessa.

What was the outcome of Denikin's advance in 1919?

Denikin advanced from the Caucasus and captured Tsaritsyn.

What happened to Kolchak in 1920?

Kolchak was executed.

Who replaced Denikin in Crimea?

Wrangel replaced Denikin.

What was the Treaty of Riga?

The Treaty of Riga was a peace agreement between Poland and Soviet Russia in 1921.

What were the main reasons for the Bolshevik victory in the Civil War?

Bolsheviks controlled key cities, railways, and could focus on radicalizing the populace, while the Whites lacked consensus and relied on foreign forces.

What role did Trotsky play in the Red Army?

Trotsky reintroduced death penalties, threatened ex-Tsarist officers, and centralized command to maintain order.

What was War Communism?

War Communism was the economic policy from July 1918 to March 1921 that included compulsory grain requisitioning and nationalization of industries.

What was the impact of foreign intervention in the Russian Civil War?

Foreign intervention was limited, with troops primarily guarding supplies and lacking a unified strategy.

What was the significance of the Russo-Polish War?

The Russo-Polish War resulted in a cease-fire and the Treaty of Riga, which established borders and recognized Polish independence.

What economic policy did Lenin introduce in March 1921?

Lenin introduced the New Economic Policy (NEP) to restore the economy after War Communism.

What was the result of the Bolshevik's grain requisitioning policy?

The policy led to widespread famine, resulting in approximately 5 million deaths.

What was the Tambov Rising?

The Tambov Rising was a peasant revolt against Bolshevik policies from 1920 to 1922, led by Alexander Antonov.

What was Trotsky's approach to military organization?

Trotsky emphasized strict discipline, reintroduced ranks, and established political commissars in military units.

How did the Bolsheviks respond to the Tambov Rising?

The Bolsheviks used brutal tactics, including poison gas, to suppress the uprising.

What was the economic condition of Russia post-World War I?

Post-WWI, Russia faced hyperinflation, unemployment, and decreased productivity.

What was the role of the Cheka during the Civil War?

The Cheka enforced grain requisitioning and suppressed dissent, contributing to the Red Terror.

What was the impact of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk?

The treaty allowed Russia to exit World War I but resulted in significant territorial losses.

What was the Bolshevik view on the market system?

Bolsheviks, particularly Lenin, opposed the market system and favored centralized control of the economy.

What were the consequences of the ban on private trade during War Communism?

The ban led to a black market and severe shortages of goods.

What was the attitude of the Allied forces towards the Bolsheviks?

Allied forces were largely hostile, viewing Bolshevism as a contagious disease that needed to be eradicated.