The Provisional Government

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary limitation of the Provisional Government during its early existence?

It had too many ministers.

It was too closely aligned with the military.

It was not an elected body. (correct)

It lacked an efficient communication system.

Who was the leader of the Provisional Government from March to July 1917?

Leon Trotsky

Paul Milyukov

Prince Lvov (correct)

Alexander Kerensky

What was the role of the Petrograd Soviet in relation to the Provisional Government?

It provided military support to the Provisional Government.

It acted as a competing government.

It sought to undermine the Provisional Government's authority.

It acted as a supervisory body for the interests of soldiers and workers. (correct)

What did Paul Milyukov claim about the authority of the Provisional Government?

It was appointed by the revolution. Signup and view all the answers

Which event contributed to the Petrograd Soviet gaining greater prominence?

The establishment of multiple soviets in major cities. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Provisional Government's relationship with the Petrograd Soviet begin?

With considerable cooperation. Signup and view all the answers

Who was a key individual that served in both the Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet?

Alexander Kerensky Signup and view all the answers

What was a crucial factor that made governing difficult for the Provisional Government?

Its inability to manage public expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of Soviet Order Number 1?

To limit the authority of the Provisional Government in military matters Signup and view all the answers

Which significant event contributed to the loss of authority of Nicholas II in February 1917?

The mutiny of the Petrograd garrison Signup and view all the answers

What was an early achievement of the Provisional Government?

Legal recognition of trade unions Signup and view all the answers

How did the initial political cooperation between the Provisional Government and the Petrograd Soviet manifest?

Via mutual agreements on governance Signup and view all the answers

What change occurred as the year progressed between the Provisional Government and the Soviet?

The Provisional Government shifted to the right Signup and view all the answers

What significant sentiment was prevalent in Petrograd after the February Revolution?

Elated optimism about new freedoms Signup and view all the answers

What role did Stalin and Kamenev play upon their return to Petrograd?

They took an anti-Lenin stance Signup and view all the answers

What was Kamenev's stance regarding cooperation with the Provisional Government?

He insisted that cooperation was essential due to the government's struggles. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of Lenin's key arguments while he was in exile?

To turn the war Russia was fighting into a class war Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the factors that initially promoted cooperation between the Soviet and the Provisional Government?

A shared understanding to prevent lawlessness Signup and view all the answers

What approach was Kamenev associated with in discussions with Stalin?

Accommodationism Signup and view all the answers

Why did Lenin's opponents accuse him of being in the pay of the German government?

He received financial support from the German foreign office. Signup and view all the answers

Which political group was underrepresented in the early meetings of the Soviet?

Bolsheviks Signup and view all the answers

What was Lenin's view of the February Revolution upon his return?

It failed to achieve real political freedom. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the significant changes made by the Provisional Government on March 3rd?

The introduction of an eight-hour workday Signup and view all the answers

Which issue did the Provisional Government fail to address that led to future conflicts?

The critical issues of war and land Signup and view all the answers

What key policy did Lenin propose in his April Theses?

Overthrow the Provisional Government. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the reasons for the Soviets' ability to restrict the Provisional Government's authority?

Their early actions demonstrated military influence Signup and view all the answers

What slogan did Lenin use to convey the basic needs of the Russian people?

Peace, Bread, and Land Signup and view all the answers

Who among the first Provisional Government members was a Minister of Justice?

Kerensky Signup and view all the answers

What was one of Lenin's criticisms of the Provisional Government?

It represented the interests of the upper class. Signup and view all the answers

What did Lenin believe was essential for transferring power to the workers?

Complete control of the soviets. Signup and view all the answers

What were the circumstances surrounding Lenin's return to Petrograd?

He was aided by the Germans to hasten Russia's withdrawal from the war. Signup and view all the answers

What issue did Lenin emphasize as a primary reason for the failure of the Provisional Government?

Failure to address war issues. Signup and view all the answers

How did Lenin view the Dual Authority established post-revolution?

As inherently flawed and ineffective. Signup and view all the answers

What did Lenin mean by 'All Power to the Soviets'?

A demand for the complete dissolution of the Provisional Government. Signup and view all the answers

What issue did Lenin identify as a crucial need for the Russian populace?

Addressing the chronic food shortage. Signup and view all the answers

What major issue did the Provisional Government face that was tied to its precarious economic situation in 1917?

Reliance on foreign financial assistance Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary demand of the peasants following the February Revolution?

Redistribution of lands held by the gentry and the Church Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main reasons the Provisional Government could not disband the army in 1917?

Fear of soldiers joining revolutionary groups Signup and view all the answers

What was the 'Address to the people of the whole world' issued by the Petrograd soviet advocating for?

Peace without annexations or indemnities Signup and view all the answers

How did the Provisional Government respond to the peasant unrest in 1917?

By establishing land committees and asking for patience Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the peasant committees formed after the February Revolution?

They initiated the redistribution of land and agricultural implements. Signup and view all the answers

Which minister resigned from the Provisional Government due to public protests against the war in May 1917?

Milyukov Signup and view all the answers

Why did Chernov resign as Minister of Agriculture in the Coalition Government?

He disagreed with Kerensky and could not control the chaos. Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately resulted from Milyukov's commitment to the Allies?

The Milyukov crisis and government instability Signup and view all the answers

What was one key concern of the Provisional Government regarding land allocations during the war?

It risked inciting mass desertions among peasant soldiers. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant consequence of the Provisional Government's focus on the war?

A decrease in public support Signup and view all the answers

How did the number of recorded peasant risings change from March to October 1917?

It increased significantly over the months. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the Germans choose to refrain from attacking the Russians during the internal turmoil of 1917?

They wanted to encourage revolutionary sentiment in the Russian army Signup and view all the answers

What was the Provisional Government's primary concern during the land redistribution struggle?

To maintain food supplies to the cities. Signup and view all the answers

Which party was most popular in Russia and represented a major socialist faction in 1917?

Social Revolutionaries Signup and view all the answers

What issue primarily drove a wedge between the socialist members of the Provisional Government and the soviet?

Compromise with conservative parties Signup and view all the answers

What did Lenin emphasize in his April Theses regarding the Provisional Government?

That it represented bourgeois interests instead of revolutionary aims. Signup and view all the answers

What major victory or goal did the Provisional Government seem to abandon amid its wartime focus?

Land reforms for peasants Signup and view all the answers

Which group was seen as reflecting the aspirations of Russia's peasants?

The Social Revolutionary Party Signup and view all the answers

What was the effect of having landed gentry in the Provisional Government on land reform efforts?

They actively worked against peasant land demands. Signup and view all the answers

What political shift occurred in the Provisional Government after the May Crisis?

Isolation of socialist factions Signup and view all the answers

What role did Alexander Kerensky assume after the May Crisis?

War Minister Signup and view all the answers

What was a major cause of unrest among national minorities in the Russian Empire in 1917?

The lack of response from the Provisional Government to reasonable requests. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the expectations of foreign bankers from the Provisional Government?

Continuation of the war effort Signup and view all the answers

What did Resolution 19 from the Bolshevik conference state regarding national minorities?

They should have the right to secede and form independent states. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a faction represented in the Provisional Government?

Democrats Signup and view all the answers

What issue overshadowed the Provisional Government's focus on land and national minority issues?

Their constant concern with progression of the war. Signup and view all the answers

What was the consequence of the Provisional Government’s inability to address social and economic issues?

Encouragement of revolutionary sentiment Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main reasons the Provisional Government could agree to Polish independence demands?

Poland was under German occupation. Signup and view all the answers

What stance did Lenin take regarding the independence of Finland?

He believed autonomy could strengthen ties with Russia. Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the Bolsheviks' acceptance of Finnish independence?

It encouraged a coup d'état by the Finnish Social Democrats. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the Ukrainian nationalist movement during 1917?

It was largely driven by a small group of intellectuals. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary demand of the protesters during the July Days in Petrograd?

All Power to the Soviets Signup and view all the answers

What was one of Lenin's primary concerns about the July Days?

That the movement could lead to Soviet collapse Signup and view all the answers

What major challenge did the Provisional Government face regarding the Ukrainian Republic?

The economic resources of the region were essential. Signup and view all the answers

What did the all-Muslim congresses advocate for in the wake of the February Revolution?

Federalism within a new Russia. Signup and view all the answers

What is Richard Pipes' assessment of the Bolsheviks' involvement in the July Days?

They had orchestrated the protests to seize power Signup and view all the answers

During the July Days, which military group notably participated in the protests?

Garrison soldiers from Petrograd Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of the insensitivity of Russification under the Tsars?

Heightened demands for autonomy from national minorities. Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the demonstrations that took place on July 4?

The protesters retreated to their barracks Signup and view all the answers

What was Kerensky's strategy to maintain control over the Petrograd Soviet?

To persuade them to join a coalition with the Provisional Government. Signup and view all the answers

What specific event troubled Lenin in relation to the July Days?

The potential shift of garrison troops to the front lines Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the goals the Petrograd Soviet demanded from the Provisional Government upon entering the coalition?

Effective civilian control over industrial policies. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Ukrainian soviet, the Rada, initially attempt to negotiate?

Autonomy without separation from Russia. Signup and view all the answers

What did Leon Trotsky suggest was one cause of the violence during the July Days?

Provocations by government troops Signup and view all the answers

How did many regiments react to the initial protests on July 3?

They refused to participate Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the Provisional Government’s response to national minority demands?

They were largely dismissive and unable to take action. Signup and view all the answers

What broader strategy were the Bolsheviks employing in the summer of 1917?

To undermine the Provisional Government before seizing power Signup and view all the answers

What did the Provisional Government lack concerning the nationalities issue during its rule?

A clear strategy for negotiation. Signup and view all the answers

Why did some historians believe the July Days were a spontaneous event?

They were driven by anger over war conditions Signup and view all the answers

What happened following the June Offensive agreed upon by the Petrograd Soviet?

It resulted in increased unrest and dissatisfaction. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the issue of Finnish independence considered more complex than that of Poland?

The presence of Russian troops was significant. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Lenin reportedly in Finland during the July Days?

Suffering from overwork Signup and view all the answers

What action did the government take in response to the protests?

They attempted to suppress the protests militarily Signup and view all the answers

What perception did the Provisional Government have about the Bolsheviks during the July Days?

They considered them to be leading a rebellion Signup and view all the answers

What were the repercussions of Lenin's flight from Petrograd?

It damaged his reputation and credibility. Signup and view all the answers

Which military leader opposed the Provisional Government's authority?

General Kornilov Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary reason for Kerensky's anxiety during the July Days?

The potential of pro-Tsarist officers to stage a coup. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Provisional Government respond to the July Days?

By weakening the army garrison significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What did Kornilov insist upon to restore military order?

The return of capital punishment in the army. Signup and view all the answers

What was the condition of the Bolsheviks by July 8th?

They had become a marginalized and discredited force. Signup and view all the answers

What was one major outcome of Kornilov's proposal to the Provisional Government?

The Provisional Government lost significant authority. Signup and view all the answers

What tactic did Kerensky employ in response to the July Days?

He disarmed regiments that joined the protest. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant fear for Kerensky with regard to the military?

That loyalist troops would turn against him. Signup and view all the answers

What was Nicholas II's status following the events of July?

He was moved to Tobolsk, Siberia. Signup and view all the answers

How did the July Days impact the perception of the Bolsheviks?

They were considered a dangerous and discredited faction. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the suggested measures Kornilov implemented during his command?

Restoring military control over vital industries. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary concern of the Provisional Government after the July Days?

The potential for a military coup from loyal troops. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the Provisional Government's belief in the success of the June offensive?

To rally public support and enhance international prestige Signup and view all the answers

What role did Kerensky take on in the Provisional Government?

Minister of War Signup and view all the answers

What was one strategy Kerensky used to motivate soldiers during the war effort?

Appealing to their revolutionary patriotism Signup and view all the answers

What was the main outcome of the June offensive for the Provisional Government?

It resulted in a massive desertion crisis Signup and view all the answers

How did Soviet interference contribute to the condition of the army?

By undermining officers' authority through Order Number One Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of General Kornilov's actions following the June offensive?

He demanded the cessation of the offensive and criticized political opponents Signup and view all the answers

What was the public perception of Kerensky after the June offensive?

He gained a reputation as 'Persuader-in-Chief' for his speeches Signup and view all the answers

What event followed the failed June offensive, contributing to unrest?

The Kornilov Revolt Signup and view all the answers

What did the telegram from the front indicate about the state of the army?

There was a loss of authority and increasing disorder Signup and view all the answers

What was the estimated loss for Russia in terms of soldiers during the June offensive?

60,000 soldiers Signup and view all the answers

How did the troops respond to the orders during the June offensive?

They often engaged in discussions and delayed execution Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the social unrest that followed the failure of the June Offensive?

A surge in spontaneous uprisings and disorder among soldiers Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key consequences of Kerensky's approach to military leadership?

He failed to maintain military obedience, leading to chaos Signup and view all the answers

What did the Provisional Government hope to achieve with the June offensive that ultimately failed?

To solidify their control over the army and society Signup and view all the answers

What event marked the assembly of the Congress of Soviets in Petrograd?

The appointment of the new government Signup and view all the answers

Who was the chairman of the Congress of Soviets during its assembly in October?

Lev Kamenev Signup and view all the answers

What was the composition of the new government announced at the Congress of Soviets?

Exclusively Bolsheviks and left-leaning SRs Signup and view all the answers

What was the reaction of the Mensheviks and right-of-centre Social Revolutionaries to the Bolshevik takeover?

They expressed disapproval and walked out of the Congress Signup and view all the answers

What did Trotsky claim about the Mensheviks and right-of-centre SRs as they left the Congress?

They had lost political relevance Signup and view all the answers

What did Lenin need to do following the assembly of the Congress of Soviets?

Consolidate his power and address opposition Signup and view all the answers

What was the public perception of the Bolshevik takeover according to many delegates?

It was regarded as a coup against the Provisional Government Signup and view all the answers

What was a critical outcome of the event surrounding the Congress of Soviets?

Establishment of a socialist dictatorship by the Bolsheviks Signup and view all the answers

What was Kerensky's misjudgment regarding the Bolsheviks?

He underestimated their influence among the Petrograd garrison. Signup and view all the answers

Who was primarily responsible for organizing the October Revolution?

Trotsky. Signup and view all the answers

What critical authority did Trotsky gain to help the Bolsheviks' cause?

Chairmanship of the Military Revolutionary Committee. Signup and view all the answers

What action did the Bolsheviks take on the night of October 24-25, 1917?

They successfully took control of key installations in Petrograd. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Kerensky delay his preparations to oppose the Bolshevik coup?

He feared being labeled a counter-revolutionary. Signup and view all the answers

What was the response of the Petrograd garrison on the morning of October 25?

They refused to accept orders. Signup and view all the answers

What was the approximate participation rate of soldiers in the October coup?

One in twenty. Signup and view all the answers

What did Trotsky declare on the afternoon of October 25?

The Provisional Government has been deposed. Signup and view all the answers

What ultimatum did the Military Revolutionary Committee issue to the Winter Palace?

Surrender or be bombarded by the Aurora. Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the artillery fire from the Peter and Paul Fortress?

It was inaccurate and ineffective. Signup and view all the answers

How did the defenders of the Winter Palace react as the situation unfolded?

They decided to escape. Signup and view all the answers

What did Lenin announce following the deposing of the Provisional Government?

Power had passed to the Military Revolutionary Committee. Signup and view all the answers

What attitude did Bolshevik supporters exhibit during the takeover of vital installations?

They remained calm and strategic. Signup and view all the answers

What actions did Kerensky take in response to the deteriorating situation with Kornilov?

He called an emergency cabinet meeting and requested dictatorial powers. Signup and view all the answers

What was Kornilov's belief regarding the telegram he received from Kerensky?

He believed it was issued under Bolshevik pressure. Signup and view all the answers

What was Kornilov’s reaction to Kerensky's press release accusing him of treason?

He issued a counter press release defending his actions. Signup and view all the answers

What role did Vladimir Lvov play in the relationship between Kerensky and Kornilov?

He acted as a go-between trying to align both leaders. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the Kornilov Revolt is accurate?

It reflected a clear division between the military and the Provisional Government. Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately led to the failure of Kornilov’s attempts to advance toward Petrograd?

The railway workers refused to transport his troops. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the Kornilov Revolt for the Bolsheviks?

They discredited moderate authorities. Signup and view all the answers

How did the outcome of the municipal elections in Petrograd and Moscow reflect the political shift in 1917?

The Bolsheviks significantly increased their share of the vote. Signup and view all the answers

How did Kerensky's actions inadvertently benefit the Bolsheviks during the Kornilov Revolt?

He released them from prison and supplied them with weapons. Signup and view all the answers

What effect did the Kornilov Revolt have on Kerensky's position?

It weakened his credibility and position. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial perception of Kornilov among moderates and conservatives?

They considered him a potential savior of Russia. Signup and view all the answers

What strategic mistake did Kornilov make regarding Kerensky and his intentions?

He believed Kerensky was fully supportive of his plans. Signup and view all the answers

What was one reason for the decline in voter turnout between June and September 1917?

Growing disillusionment with the Provisional Government. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the major repercussions of the Kornilov Revolt?

It created a power vacuum that benefited the Bolsheviks. Signup and view all the answers

What political advantage did the Bolsheviks gain from the Kornilov Revolt?

They positioned themselves as the defenders of the Revolution. Signup and view all the answers

What was one result of the release of Bolshevik prisoners in late August 1917?

Heightened influence of the Bolsheviks within the Petrograd Soviet. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for Kornilov's frustration towards the Provisional Government?

He believed they were incapable of restoring order. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the military's attitude towards Kerensky after the Kornilov Revolt?

They were disillusioned and disheartened by his actions. Signup and view all the answers

Following the events of the Kornilov Revolt, which group was empowered?

The Bolsheviks, who gained arms and influence. Signup and view all the answers

How did Kornilov's relationship with other military leaders change during the Kornilov Revolt?

They became uncertain and reluctant to act. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Kornilov Revolt impact the perception of the Provisional Government in Russia?

It exposed the government's political weaknesses. Signup and view all the answers

What was the fate of General Krymov, who led Kornilov's forces?

He committed suicide to avoid court-martial. Signup and view all the answers

What was one consequence of the Bolsheviks gaining control of municipal seats in late 1917?

A manifestation of Bolshevik influence over major cities. Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the social and political decline of the Social Revolutionaries post-Kornilov Revolt?

The loss of popular support and electoral seats. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kerensky's admission about the Kornilov affair suggest regarding its historical significance?

It served as a direct precursor to the October Revolution. Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of declining attendance at Soviet meetings on the Bolsheviks?

It provided an opportunity for them to assert greater control. Signup and view all the answers

How did food shortages leading up to winter influence public sentiment towards the Provisional Government?

It contributed to growing discontent and disillusionment. Signup and view all the answers

Which explanation best captures the political environment in Russia following the Kornilov Revolt?

A notable increase in radicalization among leftist factions. Signup and view all the answers

What motivated soldiers and sailors to turn towards the Bolsheviks in 1917?

Disillusionment with other political factions Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the pressing needs of the peasants in the countryside?

Official recognition of land ownership Signup and view all the answers

How did Bolsheviks establish control over the Soviet movement in September 1917?

Through clear majorities in factory committees Signup and view all the answers

What strategy did Trotsky propose for the Bolshevik seizure of power?

To emphasize their legitimacy by waiting for the Congress of Soviets Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary concern of the Military Revolutionary Committee in October 1917?

To ensure Bolshevik influence over the Petrograd garrison Signup and view all the answers

How did the Bolsheviks view the elections for the Constituent Assembly?

As a necessary step towards legitimizing their power Signup and view all the answers

What critical moment led to the establishment of the Military Revolutionary Committee?

The threat of a German attack on Petrograd Signup and view all the answers

Which political group posed a significant challenge to the Bolsheviks during this period?

The Socialist Revolutionary Party Signup and view all the answers

What was Lenin's intention before the All-Russian Congress of Soviets?

To ensure that the Bolsheviks had already seized power Signup and view all the answers

What was one consequence of the increase in Bolshevik representation at Soviet meetings?

A decrease in overall Soviet attendance Signup and view all the answers

What did the Bolsheviks capitalize on to increase their influence, apart from their own support?

The apathy of their political opponents Signup and view all the answers

What was the Bolsheviks' primary motivation behind the slogan 'All Power to the Soviets'?

To undermine the authority of the Provisional Government Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the decline in Soviet effectiveness noted by Izvestia?

Political fragmentation among factions Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Dual Authority

The Provisional Government, led by Prince Lvov, emerged after tsar Nicholas II's abdication in March 1917, functioning as the old Duma reformed.
It lacked legitimate authority as it was not elected but arose from a rebellious committee, dependent on public performance to gain loyalty.
The authority of the Provisional Government was shared with the Petrograd Soviet, leading to a situation known as "Dual Authority."
Cooperation existed initially between the government and the Soviet, with key figures like Alexander Kerensky holding positions in both bodies.

Role of the Petrograd Soviet

The Soviet aimed to supervise and ensure the interests of soldiers and workers were considered by the Provisional Government.
Its influence grew due to the Provisional Government's uncertainties post-February Revolution.
The Petrograd Soviet issued 'Soviet Order Number 1,' asserting that military orders were binding only if they did not contradict Soviet decrees, undermining the Provisional Government's authority.

Importance of Soviet Order Number 1

Soviet Order Number 1 limited the Provisional Government's control over the military, essential for holding power.
The Provisional Government needed to compromise with the Soviet to maintain stability but faced growing issues as time progressed.

Early Political Cooperation

Following the February Revolution, a sense of elation fostered cooperation among various political groups.
Several progressive measures were adopted by the Provisional Government, including amnesty for political prisoners and the recognition of trade unions.
However, these reforms did not address the pressing issues of the war and land, which would later challenge the partnership of the Dual Authority.

The Return of the Bolsheviks

After Nicholas II's abdication, exiled Bolsheviks rushed back to Petrograd, with Stalin and Lev Kamenev becoming early influential voices.
Lenin remained in exile but urged Bolsheviks to transform the war into a class struggle and avoid cooperation with the Provisional Government.
Stalin and Kamenev initially ignored Lenin's instructions, advocating for negotiations regarding the war and cooperation with other parties.

Lenin's Impact on His Return

Lenin arrived in Petrograd on April 3, 1917, via Switzerland, which raised suspicions of his ties to German interests.
He condemned the existing political framework and called for the overthrow of the Provisional Government upon his arrival.
Lenin's 'April Theses' rejected cooperation with other parties, demanded the transfer of power to the Soviets, and promoted the proletariat's interests over other social classes.

Bolshevik Slogans

"Peace, Bread, and Land" encapsulated the urgent issues facing Russia: ending the war, addressing food shortages, and land reform.
Lenin emphasized that the Provisional Government failed to address these critical issues, which paved the way for its downfall.

Problems Faced by the Provisional Government

Lack of elected authority limited the Provisional Government's legitimacy.
Land reforms were demanded by peasants, leading to unrest.
Worker discontent surfaced due to worsening conditions.
The continuing war and its immense societal costs further complicated governance.

The War's Impact on the Government

The Provisional Government felt compelled to continue the war due to international obligations and internal military stability fears.
Massive reliance on foreign financial support and maintaining an armed army made peace negotiations difficult, exacerbating tensions within Russia.
The strain of war obligations hindered the Provisional Government's ability to simultaneously address social and economic issues, leading to crises.

Milyukov Crisis

The Milyukov crisis arose from discontent over the government's commitment to the war, leading to public protests.
Foreign Minister Milyukov's announcement contradicted the Soviet's appeal for peace, resulting in his resignation and showcasing divisions within the government.

Reshaping the Government

Following the Milyukov crisis, Alexander Kerensky became War Minister, and efforts were made to align the Provisional Government with socialist interests.
However, joining the government exposed socialists to accusations of betraying revolutionary principles and being complicit with bourgeois interests, deepening the rift with the Soviet.### Provisional Government and Workers' Conditions
Provisional Government included various socialist parties, reflecting a spectrum of political thought.
Discontent grew as some socialists accused the government of yielding to bourgeois interests.

Peasants and Land Redistribution

Peasant issues were largely overlooked in the early days of the Provisional Government.
Social Revolutionary Party advocated for land redistribution, targeting lands owned by gentry and the Church.
Provisional Government requested patience from peasants while emphasizing the complexity of land reform.
April 1917 established land committees to draft effective land legislation.
By May 1917, the situation changed with Chernov as Minister of Agriculture, who promised land distribution.

Peasant Actions and Provisional Government's Response

Peasant committees began redistributing land and resources autonomously.
Peasant uprisings surged, with recorded incidents jumping from 49 in March to 1,169 in October 1917.
The government struggled to manage peasant unrest and failed to initiate effective land reforms.

National Minorities and Autonomy Demands

Minority activists pushed for independence, leading to chaos in various regions.
Key reports highlighted unrest in Azov, Astrakhan, Ekaterinburg, and Tiflis due to bread prices and demands for autonomy.
Bolsheviks recognized the right of nationalities to secede, fostering support among diverse groups.
Poland and Finland were notable areas seeking autonomy; Polish demands were easier due to German occupation.
Finnish nationalists desired autonomy, which the Bolsheviks later agreed to after the Provisional Government's inaction.

Ukrainian National Movement

Ukrainian Rada emerged in March 1917, pushing for an independent Ukraine.
The Provisional Government failed to sufficiently respond to nationalist demands.
By autumn 1917, the Ukrainian Republic was a reality despite government resistance.

June Offensive and Military Failures

The Provisional Government launched a military offensive, seeking success to bolster government legitimacy.
Kerensky promoted revolutionary patriotism while restoring military authority, but the command structure was weakened.
Initial successes gave way to disastrous retreats; desertion rates soared.
The offensive resulted in the loss of around 60,000 soldiers and highlighted governmental failures.

The Aftermath of the June Offensive

Following the chaos, criticism surged against the Provisional Government, leading to diminished authority.
Kerensky became Prime Minister, with Kornilov as Commander-in-Chief, amidst collapsing military discipline.

The July Days Uprising

July 3-6, 1917, marked a significant crisis as soldiers and sailors protested demanding Soviet control.
Protests criticized the government’s failure to secure peace after the June Offensive.
The Bolsheviks' involvement in the uprising remains debated; they later distanced themselves from the failed revolt.

Conclusion of Events

The evolving political landscape after the June Offensive and the July Days set the stage for the Bolshevik Revolution in October 1917.### Lenin's Return and the July Days
Lenin was resting in Finland when news broke of unrest in Petrograd, prompting his urgent return.
He feared that an uncoordinated attempt to seize power could lead to the Bolsheviks' downfall.
The Bolshevik strategy revolved around waiting for the Provisional Government’s collapse following the failed June offensive.
Richard Pipes criticized the July 1917 insurrection as Lenin's major blunder, suggesting it was not a spontaneous uprising but rather encouraged by the Bolsheviks.

Events of July 3-6, 1917

On July 3, a protest march organized by soldiers and sailors aimed to overthrow the Provisional Government, calling for "All Power to the Soviets."
Rioting occurred, but the protest ultimately retreated by midnight, with Lenin returning to Petrograd the next day.
On July 4, Lenin and the Bolsheviks hesitated to fully support the demonstrations, concerned about loyalty from the army.
Violence erupted as government troops provoked chaos among the protesters, leading to bloody encounters.
The protests temporarily gained momentum, seizing key locations in the city.

Aftermath of the July Days

The Provisional Government accused Lenin of collusion with Germany, issuing an arrest warrant while he fled to avoid capture.
Following the unrest, Kerensky disarmed participating regiments, banned Bolshevik publications, and imprisoned key Bolshevik leaders.
Fear of a right-wing backlash grew within the government as loyal troops successfully restored order in Petrograd.
By July 8, the Bolsheviks’ credibility was significantly damaged, with Lenin hiding and public support shifting towards the right.

The Kornilov Affair

General Kornilov, the new Commander-in-Chief, sought to regain control over the army and restore order, proposing to bypass soviet authority.
Kerensky initially supported Kornilov’s demands, fearing increased disorder in Petrograd due to the German advance.
Tensions escalated as Kerensky backed away from Kornilov's proposals, leading to perceptions that Kerensky was ineffectively managing the government.
Kornilov misinterpreted Kerensky's reaction as a betrayal and believed he was the only viable leader against the Bolsheviks.

The Military Coup Attempt

Kornilov moved troops toward Petrograd under the belief that he had Kerensky's backing to quell a purported Bolshevik coup.
Kerensky, perceiving Kornilov’s actions as treasonous, declared a state of emergency and called for public defense, allowing Bolsheviks to arm themselves.
Kornilov's attempt to rally support failed as railway workers refused to help transport his troops, and once the threat began to diminish, he was arrested.

Aftermath of the Kornilov Revolt

The fallout from Kornilov's attempt severely undermined the credibility of moderate and right-wing leaders, shifting support to the Bolsheviks.
Kerensky's position weakened significantly following the revolt, as the soviets no longer collaborated with him and the coalition government collapsed.
Bolshevik support surged, as they presented themselves as defenders of Petrograd, overcoming their earlier setbacks.
Following the Kornilov Affair, revolutionary committees supporting the Bolshevik cause began to form across Russia.

Build-up to the October Revolution

By September, election results indicated a notable increase in support for the Bolsheviks, particularly seen in the municipal elections in Petrograd and Moscow.
In Petrograd, Bolshevik support rose from 20% to 33%, and in Moscow, they gained nearly 50% of municipal seats in the September elections.
Concurrently, the declining voter participation reflected growing disillusionment with the Provisional Government, signaling a shift in public sentiment favoring the Bolsheviks.

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Test your knowledge on the Provisional Government and its leaders after the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II in 1917. This quiz focuses on the political dynamics, key figures, and events during this crucial period in Russian history. Assess your understanding of how the old duma transformed under new pressures and challenges.