Solution:

Social Conditions in Russia Before 1905

Russian society was predominantly agrarian, with a large peasant population living in poverty. The nobility held significant power and wealth, while the majority of the population, including workers in cities, faced harsh living conditions and limited rights. Education and literacy rates were low, contributing to widespread social unrest.

Economic Conditions in Russia Before 1905

The economy was primarily based on agriculture, with most peasants working on land owned by the nobility. Industrialization was beginning but was uneven, leading to poor working conditions in factories. The economy faced challenges such as inflation, limited infrastructure, and reliance on outdated farming methods.

Political Conditions in Russia Before 1905

Russia was an autocratic state under Tsar Nicholas II, with no political freedoms or effective representation for the populace. Political dissent was met with repression, and various revolutionary movements were gaining traction. The lack of reforms and political representation fueled discontent among different social classes.

Solution:

Working Population in Russia Compared to Europe Before 1917

The working population in Russia was predominantly made up of peasants and unskilled laborers, unlike many Western European countries where industrial workers often had better skills and wages. Many Russian workers were employed in emerging industries under poor conditions, with long hours and minimal rights. Additionally, the absence of strong labor unions and political representation set Russia apart, as workers faced greater repression and fewer opportunities for organizing compared to their European counterparts.

Solution:

Reasons for the Collapse of Tsarist Autocracy in 1917

The Tsarist autocracy collapsed due to a combination of social unrest, economic hardship, and military failures. Widespread dissatisfaction among peasants and workers grew from poor living conditions and exploitation. The impact of World War I exacerbated food shortages and inflation, leading to strikes and protests. Additionally, the loss of support from the military, which faced demoralization and mutinies, weakened the Tsar's power, ultimately culminating in the February Revolution.

Solution:

Main Events and Effects of the February Revolution

• Event: Mass protests and strikes in Petrograd.
• Event: The abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
• Effect: Establishment of the Provisional Government.
• Effect: Formation of the Petrograd Soviet.

Main Events and Effects of the October Revolution

• Event: Armed insurrection led by the Bolsheviks.
• Event: Capture of key government buildings in Petrograd.
• Effect: Overthrow of the Provisional Government.
• Effect: Establishment of Bolshevik control and the Soviet government.

The February Revolution involved various groups including workers, soldiers, and the middle class, leading to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. Key leaders included figures like Alexander Kerensky in the Provisional Government and Leon Trotsky in the Petrograd Soviet. The October Revolution was led by the Bolsheviks, with Vladimir Lenin as the primary leader and Trotsky coordinating the uprising. Both revolutions significantly impacted Soviet history, leading to the rise of the Bolshevik regime and the eventual establishment of a communist state.

Solution:

Main Changes Brought About by the Bolsheviks After the October Revolution

• Change: Nationalization of land and redistribution among peasants.
• Change: Withdrawal from World War I through the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk.
• Change: Establishment of a one-party state, banning opposition parties.
• Change: Introduction of decrees for workers' control over factories.
• Change: Establishment of the Cheka for internal security and suppression of dissent.

Solution:

Kulaks

Kulaks were wealthy peasants in Russia who owned larger farms and were more prosperous than other peasants. They were often seen as class enemies by the Bolsheviks and faced severe repression during collectivization efforts in the 1920s and 1930s.

The Duma

The Duma was the legislative assembly in Russia, established after the 1905 Revolution. It was intended to provide a degree of political representation, but its powers were limited, and the Tsar retained significant control over governance.

Women Workers Between 1900 and 1930

Between 1900 and 1930, women workers in Russia increasingly joined the labor force, often facing harsh working conditions. The October Revolution in 1917 brought some improvements in women's rights, but challenges remained in achieving equality.

The Liberals

The Liberals in Russia sought political reforms, constitutional government, and civil liberties. They played a significant role in the early 20th century but were divided and struggled to effectively oppose the autocracy or unite with other revolutionary groups.

Stalin’s Collectivisation Programme

Stalin's collectivization programme, initiated in 1928, aimed to consolidate individual landholdings into collective farms. It sought to increase agricultural productivity and eliminate the kulaks, leading to widespread famine and suffering among the peasantry.