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The Revolution Of September 1917

Decent Essays

The events leading up to the Revolution of February 1917 were crucial in laying the grounds for an uprising that would eradicate the Tsarist regime. The various causes, together, ultimately worked hand in hand in causing the revolution, yet it can be argued that it was due to certain occurrences that tipped the scale. The outbreak of the First World War was an extremely important factor, so much so that it lost Nicholas II the support of the army. Other important factors to consider include the Tsar’s perpetual commitment to Autocratic rule, and the shortages in food and fuel, which, combined with the long term discontentment, all equated to the uprising that began on the 23rd February in 1917. The First World War critically damaged what little stability the Russian Government had and acted as a major underlying factor in the lead-up to the revolution. Although off to a promising start, military problems provided an essential backdrop for the coming revolution. Within the first twelve months of fighting, over four million Russian men were lost, alongside many defeats. The Tsar’s decision to command the armed forces only meant that he was to be held accountable for the later defeats, diminishing his already shaky reputation. Nicholas also managed to alienate much of the political spectrum during this period, from his decision to suspend the Duma. His political opponents had already united to form ‘The Progressive Bloc’ and were increasingly critical of the gross incompetence

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