The Russian Revolution

Introduction to the Russian Revolution

The Russian Revolution of 1917 was a period of political and social revolution across the territory of the Russian Empire, commencing with the demolition of the Tsarist autocracy and leading to the establishment of the Soviet Union. It was one of the most important and consequential historical events of the 20th century.

Key Events

• Bloody Sunday - 1905: Peaceful demonstrators led by Father Gapon marched to the Winter Palace requesting reforms, only to be fired upon by troops.
• February Revolution - 1917: Dissatisfaction with the Tsarist regime led to massive strikes and eventually the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
• October Revolution - 1917: Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, overthrew the Provisional Government, seizing control and establishing the Soviet state.

Notable Figures

Some of the key figures involved in the Russian Revolution included Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky, Joseph Stalin, and Tsar Nicholas II. Each played a pivotal role in the series of events that resulted in seismic shifts in Russian and world history.