Russian Revolution

What factors worked against the success of democratic institutions during the eight months between the fall of the Tsar and the emergence of communism?

There are many factors that worked against the success of the democratic institutions during the eight months between the fall of the Tsar and the emergence of communism. But before we can fully understand these factors, we must discuss a little history of the fall of the Tsar.

In 1894, Nicholas II ascended the throne of Russia after his father, Alexander III, died of liver disease. In January 1905 workers petitioned radical demands that improved the lot of workers, and marched at the Tsar's Winter Palace. Their peaceful demonstration became very violent after the demands were ignored. This led to what is called "Bloody Sunday." After this event many citizens of Russia turned against the government and held large demonstrations.

In 1915, Nicholas II joined his generals on the front line during the World War I and his wife, Tsarina Alexandra assumed a leading role in the government when he left the capital. This year also was considered another devastating year for Nicholas II. Over three millions soldiers were killed or wounded and or taken prisoner.

Around 1916 Russia's isolation, overburdened railroad system, and worker shortages produced an immediate crisis on the economy. On November 14, 1916 in the Fourth Duma, extreme attacks were being made on the government.

On March 12, 1917 after refusing Nicholas II's order to dissolve the Duma members, selected and instituted a new executive Tsar, The Provisional Executive Committee, soon to be renamed, The Provisional Government.

After unsuccessful attempts to contact Nicholas II's family and due to the age of his son of twelve, Nicholas II's brother, Grand Duke Michael refused the throne after the Provisional Government couldn't promise him his protection. Michael rejected the throne in the afternoon of March 16.

Working against the Provisional Government virtually from the outset was the Petrograd Soviet of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies, which had no political authority but enjoyed widespread support among industrial workers and the military. In early March the Soviet issued its famous 'Order Number One', which essentially stated that all orders issued by the Provisional Government should be countersigned by the Soviet before being carried out.

The Order

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