Causes of War
What event caused Russia to enter WWI?
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in 1914 prompted a series of alliances to activate, leading to Russia entering the war.
What major defeat did Russia face early in WWI?
The Battle of Tannenberg.
What event forced Czar Nicholas II to abdicate?
The widespread protests and strikes in Petrograd in March 1917.
Why were there food shortages in Russia during WWI?
Distribution and transport issues despite sufficient food production.
How do historians debate the impact of WWI on Russia?
They discuss whether it was a direct cause of the Russian Revolution or merely expedited the existing issues.
What two countries did Russia declare war on?
Germany and Austria-Hungary.
How many Russian soldiers were killed or wounded at the Battle of Tannenberg?
Approximately 30,000 killed or wounded and nearly 100,000 taken prisoner.
What happened to Nicholas II and his family after his abdication?
They were imprisoned and later executed by Bolshevik revolutionaries.
What happened to the prices of goods in Russia during the war?
Prices skyrocketed due to inflation and scarcity of goods.
What cultural aspects were present in Russia before the war?
A vibrant culture with a highly educated elite and evolving political institutions.
What was Czar Nicholas II's role in the military?
He took command of the Russian military despite lacking training or experience.
What was the size of the Russian army at the start of the war?
About 1.4 million men.
What sparked the protests in Petrograd in March 1917?
Workers striking for higher wages and better food distribution.
How did the war affect the Russian economy?
It led to severe strains, shortages, and inflation, contributing to public discontent.
What was the state of Russian political institutions before WWI?
They were outdated and struggled to meet the demands of a modern society.
Why did Russia struggle to produce weapons?
The Czarist regime's inability to modernize and industrialize effectively led to a shortage of weapons and ammunition.
Describe the conditions Russian soldiers faced in battle.
Many soldiers went into battle without rifles and had to use outdated weapons.
Who joined the striking workers in March 1917?
Mothers demanding food for their children.
How did inflation contribute to the unrest among the public?
Rising prices made it difficult for people to afford basic necessities, leading to protests.
In what ways did the war expose the weaknesses of the Russian Empire?
It highlighted the lack of industrial capacity, poor military leadership, and inadequate government responses to crises.
What was the main reason for the public's dissatisfaction with Nicholas II?
His failure to address food shortages, military defeats, and the overall crisis in Russia during the war.
What was the impact of poor military strategy on Russia's war efforts?
It led to heavy losses and a loss of confidence in the monarchy.
What did the abdication of Nicholas II signify for the Romanov dynasty?
It marked the end of over 300 years of Romanov rule.
What was the significance of International Women’s Day in 1917?
It became a catalyst for mass protests against the government
: How did Nicholas II’s view of his rule affect his leadership?
His belief in a divine right to rule blinded him to the realities of the situation in Russia.