The Russian Revolution: Class 9 Study Guide
In 1917 Russia's Tsar fell from power, and the Bolsheviks led by Lenin took charge.
In 1914 Russia was ruled by Tsar Nicholas II. Most people were poor peasants or factory workers, and political rights were limited. Russia fought in the First World War, which brought heavy losses, hunger and shortages.
In February 1917, workers in Petrograd went on strike and soldiers joined them. The Tsar gave up the throne. A Provisional Government took charge, but it continued the war. In October 1917, the Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, took power.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1905 | A revolution forces the Tsar to accept a parliament, the Duma |
| February 1917 | Strikes in Petrograd; the Tsar steps down |
| October 1917 | The Bolsheviks seize power |
| 1918–1920 | A civil war between the Red and White armies |
| 1922 | The Soviet Union is formed |
What changed?
The Bolsheviks gave land to peasants, ended the fighting with Germany in 1918 and put industries under state control. They planned the economy through five-year plans. Many people supported the promise of 'peace, land and bread'. At the same time, the new government crushed opponents and limited freedom of speech.
Shortages and losses.
The Tsar falls.
Bolsheviks take power.
State control of land and industry.
Why does it matter for India?
The Russian Revolution inspired many people around the world who wanted greater equality, including some Indian leaders and trade unionists. It also showed the risks of strong, one-party rule.
Worked examples and common mistakes
Example: Who led the Bolsheviks? Lenin. Example: In which month of 1917 did the Bolsheviks take power? October (by the Russian calendar of the time). Common mistakes: thinking the Tsar fell in October, and mixing the Mensheviks and the Bolsheviks. The Bolsheviks were the ones who took power.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. Nicholas II. 2. Peace, land and bread. 3. 1922.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Russia's war losses and poverty caused unrest.
- The Tsar gave up the throne in February 1917.
- The Bolsheviks took power in October 1917.
- The Soviet Union was formed in 1922.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Who was the Tsar of Russia in 1917?
- What did the Bolsheviks promise?
- In which year was the Soviet Union formed?