1. Russian Revolution and the Rise of Communism

2. Russia’s Government Before 1917 Russia was an Autocracy
Czar – Nicholas II

3. Problems due to WWI Millions of people were killed
Not enough food for the citizens
Lack of clothes, shoes and weapons
Czar ignored all of the problems that citizens were unhappy

4. Beginning of the Revolution – Part 1
1917 riots began in the streets
Military could not keep the peace
Many of the czar’s military turn against him
Czar and family were captured
New government established – it too had many problems

5. Russian Revolution – Part 2
Led by Vladimir Lenin
Czar and family were executed
Country was reorganized – Soviet Union
Civil war lasted 2 years
Problems at home made Russia pull out of WWI.

6. Rise of Communism
The tough times after WWI helped produce the rise of communism – a new type of political system
It promoted a society where people would work together and share everything and all people would be equal in terms of economics
There would be no rich, middle or poor classes in a communist society

7. Rise of Communism Communist countries have command economies
The government promised to distribute wealth fairly among the people
Many Europeans were poor, starving and angry at their leaders so they turned to communism

8. Review Questions Who became the new leader of Russia?
What new country is created?
What was a result of the revolution?