Russian Provisional Government

Definition

The Russian Provisional Government was a temporary authority established in March 1917 following the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. This government aimed to create a liberal democracy and oversee the transition to a constituent assembly, but it struggled with legitimacy and the ongoing war, leading to its eventual downfall and the rise of Bolshevik power later that year.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Russian Provisional Government was formed after the February Revolution of 1917, which led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
2. It consisted mainly of liberal and moderate socialist leaders who aimed to establish democratic reforms but faced significant challenges.
3. The Provisional Government decided to continue fighting in World War I, which was highly unpopular among soldiers and civilians, eroding its support.
4. It failed to address land reforms and food shortages, further alienating peasants and workers who turned to the Bolsheviks for solutions.
5. The Provisional Government officially collapsed after the October Revolution, leading to the establishment of Bolshevik rule and eventually the creation of the Soviet Union.

Review Questions

• How did the Russian Provisional Government's decisions during World War I affect its legitimacy and support among the populace?
  • The Russian Provisional Government's decision to continue fighting in World War I greatly impacted its legitimacy. The ongoing war resulted in heavy casualties and economic hardship, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among soldiers and civilians. As discontent grew, many turned away from the Provisional Government in search of alternative leadership, ultimately paving the way for the Bolsheviks, who promised peace and land reform.
• Discuss the relationship between the Russian Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet, and how this affected governance during this period.
  • The relationship between the Russian Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet was complex and often contentious. While the Provisional Government sought to maintain authority as a legitimate government, the Petrograd Soviet represented grassroots workers' interests and wielded significant influence over popular opinion. This dual authority created confusion and instability as both entities struggled for power, ultimately undermining effective governance and leading to increased revolutionary sentiments.
• Evaluate the reasons behind the rapid decline of the Russian Provisional Government and its inability to establish lasting reforms before being overthrown.
  • The rapid decline of the Russian Provisional Government can be attributed to several interrelated factors. Its decision to continue participating in World War I alienated key demographics, particularly soldiers and workers, who suffered under wartime conditions. Additionally, its failure to implement essential reforms like land redistribution or address food shortages eroded popular support. The government's inability to unite different factions within Russia also contributed to chaos, as competing groups like the Bolsheviks gained momentum by promising radical change. Ultimately, these failures culminated in its overthrow during the October Revolution.

Related terms

Bolsheviks:

A radical socialist faction led by Vladimir Lenin that sought to overthrow the Provisional Government and establish a communist state in Russia.

Petrograd Soviet: A workers' council that emerged during the revolution, which competed for power with the Provisional Government and represented the interests of soldiers and workers.

October Revolution:

The second phase of the Russian Revolution in October 1917 when the Bolsheviks seized control of the government from the Provisional Government, leading to a communist regime.