1. Before the Revolutions
Russia
Before the Revolutions

2. How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (1)
Stolypin’s measures effective in restoring order in the countryside
Reform to build up Kulak class inspired but effects were limited
Dumas limited in power
Little done to win loyalty from urban poor
Lena Goldfields massacre (1912)

3. How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (2)
Some argue that Russian society fragmenting after rural society breaking down
Little link between urban workers & new urban middle classes
Bolshevik party was stronger than ever, working classes politically conscious

4. How strong was Tsardom in 1914? (3)
Other historians argue that Bolsheviks were not in such a strong position – militants likely to distrust middle class intelligentsia
Great strides made in the economy – over 8% growth in the 1890s, between %
BUT growth not uniform – Russia not performing well against other economies
1913 industry=only 20%national income & only 18% Russians were urban
Russia was largest debtor nation by 1914

5. Russia & the War
Can be argued that performance in War was not as bad as first thought
But Russian Home Front was first to collapse
Poor decisions by government over taxation – policies led to inflation
Tsar refused to listen to advice – connection with Rasputin undermined tsarist authority
Loyalty of the Army faded
Any positive successes undermined by military failure

6. Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (1)
Tsar abdicated – power passed to Provisional Govt – revolution quite spontaneous
‘Dual’ power in Petrograd but neither really in control
Prov govt continued with War & was then overthrown in October
Soviets argued that Bolsheviks already important in creating climate of discontent
Lenin’s return critical

7. Why were there 2 revolutions in 1917? (2)
Chernov hesitant
Kerensky’s influence faded – attacked by both Left & Right
Importance of Lenin – a practical & flexible politician
Soviets argue that 2nd Revolution was inevitable
Essentially rising of masses but guided by the Bolsheviks
Successful because there was a power vacuum