An evaluation of the reasons for the February Revolution, 1917

An evaluation of the reasons for the February Revolution, 1917

Rapid Industrialisation

  • Industrialisation in the years proceeding 1917 led to the influx of a large labour force into urban areas.
  • This growth resulted in severe overcrowding in cities, with many workers living in deplorable conditions.
  • Factories had poor working conditions with long hours and low wages, leading to widespread worker dissatisfaction.

Socio-economic Conditions

  • Food shortages and hikes in the prices of essential goods created distress throughout the population.
  • Peasants were struggling under the burden of land scarcity and high taxes while city-dwellers faced rampant inflation and reductions in real wages.
  • The frustration of the lower classes was amplified by the perceived detachment and indifference of the ruling elite.

The Failures of the War Effort

  • Russia’s poor performance in World War I led to a loss of faith in the Tsar’s leadership and the government.
  • Large numbers of casualties, inadequate supplies, and bad administration led to low morale in the Russian military.
  • Economic strains caused by the war led to increased public discontent and unrest.

Tsarist Failings

  • Tsar Nicholas II was perceived as an incompetent leader. His decision to take personal command of the armed forces in 1915 was seen as detrimental and highlighted his inability to effectively govern.
  • He was unable to motivate or bring about significant reforms to alleviate the struggles of the Russian people.
  • The Tsar’s autocratic power was questioned, and the lack of a democratic political system increased demands for change.

Political Dissatisfaction

  • There was a lack of faith in the Duma, Russia’s semi-parliamentary body. Many felt that it failed to bring about real political change.
  • Opposition parties were suppressed, causing resentment and sparking a desire for greater political expression.
  • Political parties like the Social Democrats and Social Revolutionaries galvanised the masses and played a significant role in the instigation of the February Revolution.

Role of Women

  • On International Women’s Day in 1917, women took to the streets in Petrograd to protest against declining living conditions and food shortages, sparking the February Revolution.
  • Women played a crucial role in the revolution, demonstrating and taking part in strikes, adding to the general unrest in society.

Conclusion

  • The February Revolution can be characterised as a mass revolt, driven by socio-economic hardships, political dissatisfaction, war failures, and the percieved incompetence of the Tsar.
  • The Revolution was a manifestation of deep-rooted issues within Russian society that had been amplified by the stress of World War I.
  • It marked the end of the Tsarist autocracy, paving the way for the provisional government and subsequently the Soviet Union.