Two Revolutions in Russia By: Reid Clark

Revolutionary Rumblings  After the Revolution of 1905, Nicholas had failed to solve Russia’s basic problems.  In 1914, the huge Russian empire stretched from Eastern Europe to the Pacific.  The elected Duma set up after the Revolution of 1905 had no real power. Moderates wanted social change.  Nicholas II, a weak man, blocked attempts to limit his authority.  The outbreak of war in 1914 (WWI) fired national pride and united Russians. Armies dashed to battle with enthusiasm.

Continued…  World War I quickly strained Russian resources.  By 1915, soldiers had no rifles, no ammunition, and no medical care.  In 1915, Russian casualties had already reached two million.  Nicholas II tried to take personal charge in a patriotic gesture.

Death of the Mad Monk  By 1916, a Siberian peasant named Rasputin, influence over Alexandra reached new heights. He moved into the palace with many of his followers.  Rasputin was very corrupt and fond of worldly pleasures.  Russia was in the hands of a shady character known to his enemies as the “mad monk.”  Members of the Duma, nobles, and the czar’s relatives saw the danger.  Five men hatched a plan to destroy Rasputin in order to save monarchy.

Continued…  On December 29, 1916, Prince Felix Yussoupov lured Rasputin into his palace. Rasputin was fed cakes and wines that were poisoned. Later Yussoupov shot him.  Rasputin leaped up, after thought to be dead, fled but was shot again and clubbed to stillness.  They dropped him into the icy Neva River. Doctors later discovered that Rasputin died by drowning.  News of Rasputin’s death caused rejoicing in the capital