Russia’s revolution

Before the war, life was already tough for most ordinary Russians. Many lived in poverty, under a harsh and repressive government that favoured the rich over the poor. The country becomes more unstable with each passing year.

With the outbreak of war in 1914, the Russians put aside their grievances for the sake of national unity. But now, in early 1917, the people have had enough.

On 7 March a workers’ strike over food shortages in Petrograd (modern-day St Petersburg) quickly turns into a full-scale revolution. Tsar Nicholas II is forced to step down and the monarchy is abolished. On 16 March a democratic provisional government is proclaimed in its place.

To the relief of Britain and France, the Provisional Government promises to keep Russia in the war. But most Russians – including many soldiers – want out. Russia’s revolution is not over yet.