Social Science History Chapter 2: Socialism in Europe and Russian Revolution (Summary of the topic taught as on 30/04/2021)

 Topics Covered:

• The First World War and the Russian Empire
• The February Revolution in Petrograd

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to identify the effects of First World War I on Russia.
• Students will be able to identify the events of February Revolution in Petrograd.

The First World War and the Russian Empire

• In Russia the first world war was initially very very popular but later the support grew thin.
• Anti-German sentiments ran high.
• Russian armies lost badly in Germany and Austria.
• The war also affected the industry.
• There was labour shortage.
• By 1916, railway lines began to break down.
• The small workshops were closed down.
• There was shortage of grain and hence of bread.

Events

• In the winter of 1917, Petrograd was grim. 
• There was a food shortage in the quarters of workers.
• On 22nd February, a lockout took place at a factory.
• Workers of 50 other factories joined in sympathy.
• Women also led and participated in the strikes. This came to be called the International Women's Day.
• The government imposed a curfew.
• On the 24th and 25th, the government called out the cavalry and police to keep an eye on them.
• On 25th February, the government suspended the Duma and politicians spoke against this measure.
• On 27th February, the police headquarters were ransacked. 
• Cavalry was called out again.
• An office was shot at the barracks of a regiment and other regiments mutinied, voting to join the striking workers gathered to form a soviet or council. This was the Petrograd Soviet.
• A delegation went to meet the Tsar, military commanders advised him to abdicate.
• On 2nd March, the Tsar abdicated. 
• Soviet leaders and Duma leaders formed a Provisional Government to run the country.

Content Analysis:

1. Russia's participation in World War I caused the downfall of Tsar Nicholas II. (03 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

2. State the effects of First World War on the Russian Empire. (05 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

3. What was the impact of First World War on Industries in Russia. (05 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

4. Explain the Russia's February Revolution 1917. (05 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

5. Why were conditions in Petrograd grim? (05 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

6. Describe the main events of February Revolution in Petrograd. (05 Marks) (Tb pg no. 34)

H.W. 

Learn the answers of questions given under Content Analysis.