Summary of the Russian Revolution and Causes

Soldiers from various regiments appealed to War Minister Kerensky to end WWI and its bloodshed.
Expressed exhaustion from war and desire to return home to protect loved ones from starvation.
Warning that threats of penalties or discipline would no longer have any effect if changes weren't made.

The Russian Revolution of 1917 consists of two main events: the March and the November (Bolshevik) Revolutions.
Czar Nicholas II ruled prior to the revolution amid widespread dissatisfaction due to corruption, poverty, and military losses.
In February 1917, Nicholas II abdicated, and the Duma was established as a provisional government.
In October 1917, the Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, overthrew the provisional government promising "peace, land, and bread."
The Bolsheviks signed a peace agreement with Germany, exiting WWI and transforming Russia into the USSR.

Emancipation of serfs in 1861 left them impoverished and dissatisfied; 85% lived in agrarian poverty by 1900.

Harsh factory conditions led to strikes; "Bloody Sunday" (1905) saw peaceful protests meet violent suppression, igniting unrest.

Rasputin's influence on Nicholas II's family contributed to perceptions of corruption, culminating in his assassination in 1916.

Losses in the Russo-Japanese War and WWI diminished support for Nicholas II; military defeats sparked unrest and highlighted weaknesses.

Workers led strikes in Petrograd due to fuel and food shortages; soldiers ultimately sided with protestors, leading to the czar’s abdication.
A provisional government was established but failed to address pressing issues, maintaining involvement in WWI.

Rapid industrialization caused poor working conditions and unrest among the working class.
Marxist revolutionary movements gained traction, with Bolsheviks advocating for a radical change and the proletariat's rule under Lenin's leadership.