Russian Revolution
By: Edward Gonzalez, Kyle Smith, Micheal Trent
Why and How did the revolution start?
Important people in the Russian Revolution
founded the Communist Party in Russia and set up the world's first Communist Party dictatorship. He led the October Revolution of 1917, in which the Communists (Bolsheviks) seized power in Russia. He then ruled the country until his death in 1924.
2.Stalin,
Russian leader who succeeded Lenin as head of the Communist Party and created a totalitarian state by purging all opposition (1879-1953)
3.Marx,
German philosopher, wrote the Communist Manifesto, and regarded as the father of communism
4.Nicholas II,
Last tsar of Russia, he went to the frontlines in WWI to try to rally the troops, but was forced to abdicate after his wife made horrible decisions under the influence of Rasputin.
Important Events during the Russian Revolution
In April Lenin returns from exile in Switzerland. Change of Bolshevik policy in supporting the provisional government. April Theses. Lenin advocates overthrow of provisional government by the soviets for the working class. Also advocated redistribution of land to peasants and signature of peace treaty with Germany. Policy of 'All Power to the Soviets'.
In June Demonstrations called by the Petrograd Soviet to outmaneuver the Bolsheviks. Bolshevik support still strong. The July Days. Kronstradt sailors supporting Bolsheviks demonstrate in Petrograd. Demonstrators fired on and chaos followed. Prime Minister Lvov forced to resign and replaced by Kerensky. Bolsheviks held responsible for bloodshed and their newspapers closed and warrants for arrest of leaders issued. Lenin and Stalin fled. Trotsky and Kamenev imprisoned.
In September Kornilov Affair - General Kornilov tries to move on Petrograd with his troops, under pretext of restoring order. Kerensky appeals to Bolsheviks for help in defeating Kornilov. Lenin recognized the opportunity and formed a Red Guard of Bolshevik soldiers and workers, set up Military Revolutionary Committee. Most of Kornilov's troops deserted, Kornilov arrested and Bolshevik support increased further.
The October Revolution. Bolsheviks agree to make seizure of power 'the order of the day'. Kerensky mobilizes troops too late and they are defeated by troops loyal to the Bolsheviks. Insurrection, led by Trotsky, now begins. All main public buildings occupied. Kerensky flees. Bolsheviks assume power and effect series of radical reforms.
Effects of the Russian Revolution
One long term effect of the Russian Revolution was Communism and Collectivism. Farmers were forced to work for the government instead of themselves. Resistance to this was not tolerated.