The Russian Revolution for AP World History

Dec 10, 2023

13 min read

Are you a high school student trying to ace your AP World History class? Learning about the Russian Revolution can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve compiled a comprehensive set of FREE Google Slides dedicated to the important events, figures, and ideas leading up to and surrounding the Russian Revolution. Let’s dive in and explore a century of history, spanning from Tsarist Russia to the fall of the Soviet Union.

Tsar Nicholas II

Tsar Nicholas II, who ruled Russia from 1894 to 1917, faced a challenging period marked by political unrest, economic struggles, and social discontent. His autocratic rule and reluctance to implement reforms contributed to growing dissatisfaction among the people. The Russo-Japanese War and the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1905 further strained his leadership. During World War I, Nicholas’s decision to lead the military effort distanced him from domestic issues, leading to the February Revolution of 1917. The tsar’s subsequent abdication marked the end of the Romanov dynasty. Nicholas and his family were later executed, symbolizing the profound shift in Russian history from monarchy to the establishment of a communist state under Bolshevik rule.

Russia’s War with Japan

Rooted in territorial disputes and spheres of influence in the Far East, such as in Korea and Manchuria, tensions between Russia and Japan escalated, leading to open hostilities in 1904. The war unfolded on land and sea, with major battles, such as the Battle of Mukden and the naval Battle of Tsushima. The latter, in 1905, proved decisive, resulting in a stunning victory for Japan and crippling losses for the Russian fleet.

The conflict had profound implications for both nations. The Treaty of Portsmouth, mediated by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, concluded the war in 1905. Russia, facing internal unrest and a burgeoning revolutionary movement, accepted peace terms that acknowledged Japan’s dominance in Korea and ceded southern Manchuria. The war’s outcome shook the foundations of European imperialism, challenging the perception of Asian inferiority and influencing subsequent geopolitical dynamics.

The Russo-Japanese War’s impact reverberated globally, contributing to the rise of Japan as a major power in East Asia and inspiring nationalist movements in Asia and beyond. In Russia, the defeat fueled discontent, contributing to the revolutionary climate that would culminate in the Russian Revolution of 1905 and set the stage for the larger upheavals that followed in 1917. The conflict, while relatively brief, had profound consequences, shaping the course of history in both Russia and Japan and altering perceptions of power and influence on the world stage.

Bloody Sunday

Bloody Sunday, which occurred on January 22, 1905, stands as a turning point in Russian history, encapsulating the growing discontent and social unrest during Tsar Nicholas II’s reign. Peaceful demonstrators, comprising workers and their families, marched to the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg to present a petition to the tsar, seeking improved working conditions and political reforms. However, the day took a tragic turn when Imperial Guards opened fire on the unarmed protesters. Hundreds were killed or injured, marking a brutal suppression of dissent. Bloody Sunday exposed the harsh realities of autocratic rule and fueled widespread dissatisfaction, contributing to the revolutionary fervor that culminated in the Russian Revolution of 1905. The event underscored the urgent need for political change and set the stage for subsequent challenges to the Romanov monarchy.

The Duma

The State Duma, Russia’s first parliamentary assembly, was established by Tsar Nicholas II in 1906 as a response to the 1905 Russian Revolution and demands for political representation. Composed of elected representatives from various social classes, the Duma aimed to address societal grievances and participate in the legislative process. However, clashes between the more liberal-leaning Duma members and the conservative monarchy led to its dissolution several times. Nicholas II disbanded the First Duma in 1906, the Second Duma in 1907, and the Third Duma in 1912, each time citing disagreements and conflicts over political reforms and the extent of the Duma’s legislative power. These repeated dissolutions highlighted the ongoing struggle between the autocratic rule of the tsar and the aspirations for representative government, ultimately contributing to the unrest that culminated in the Russian Revolution of 1917.

Prime Minister Peter Stolypin

Peter Stolypin served as the Prime Minister of Russia from 1906 until his assassination in 1911. Appointed by Tsar Nicholas II, Stolypin aimed to stabilize the Russian Empire amidst social and political unrest. Known for his pragmatic and authoritarian approach, he implemented a series of reforms, including the agrarian Stolypin Land Reforms, which sought to modernize agriculture by encouraging private land ownership. Stolypin’s policies aimed to strengthen the monarchy, but they faced opposition from both revolutionary groups and conservative elements. His tenure was marked by efforts to suppress dissent, and he faced criticism for the harsh methods used to quell revolutionary activities.

Peter Stolypin, the Prime Minister of Russia, was assassinated by Dmitri Bogrov on September 1, 1911. Bogrov was a member of a left-wing revolutionary organization and saw Stolypin as a symbol of the autocratic regime. The assassination took place at the Kiev Opera House during a performance. Bogrov managed to approach Stolypin and fired two shots, fatally wounding the Prime Minister. Stolypin succumbed to his injuries a few days later on September 5, 1911. The assassination further heightened political tensions in Russia during a period of significant social and political upheaval.

Russia in World War I

During World War I, Russia played a crucial but challenging role on the Eastern Front. Boasting the largest army among the Allies, Russia faced significant limitations due to its relative lack of industrialization compared to its Western counterparts. While its vast manpower resources allowed for a formidable military presence, Russia struggled to equip and sustain its forces adequately. The Russian military faced logistical challenges, outdated equipment, and shortages of crucial supplies. The Eastern Front witnessed massive battles, with Russian forces engaging the Central Powers, particularly Germany and Austria-Hungary. Despite early successes, Russia experienced significant setbacks, and its military suffered enormous casualties. The strains of war, coupled with internal discontent, ultimately contributed to the revolutionary climate that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II in 1917 and the subsequent Bolshevik takeover in the Russian Revolution. Russia’s participation in World War I marked a tumultuous period, showcasing both the strengths and weaknesses of the Russian military and contributing to the transformative events that unfolded during and after the conflict.

Tsar Nicholas II Abdicated His Throne

Tsar Nicholas II of Russia abdicated the throne on March 15, 1917, marking a historic turning point in Russian history. Faced with mounting internal unrest, military failures in World War I, and growing discontent among the population, the tsar relinquished his position after a series of protests and demonstrations in Petrograd (formerly St. Petersburg). The February Revolution, triggered by food shortages, war weariness, and political grievances, led to the collapse of the Romanov monarchy. Nicholas II initially abdicated in favor of his brother, Grand Duke Michael, who, in turn, declined the throne, signaling the end of centuries of autocratic rule. The Provisional Government took charge, but the subsequent power vacuum set the stage for further political upheavals, ultimately culminating in the October Revolution and the establishment of a socialist government led by the Bolsheviks under Vladimir Lenin. Nicholas II’s abdication marked the close of an era and set in motion the profound transformations that reshaped Russia’s political landscape.

Tsar Nicholas II and Family Executed

The execution of Tsar Nicholas II and his family marked a tragic and historically significant event during the Russian Revolution. Following the Bolshevik takeover in 1917, the imperial family was placed under house arrest in Ekaterinburg. As the Russian Civil War intensified, the Bolsheviks feared that the Whites (anti-Bolshevik forces) might attempt to rescue the tsar and rally support against them. On the night of July 16-17, 1918, in a small basement of the Ipatiev House, the Bolsheviks executed Tsar Nicholas II, his wife Alexandra, their five children, and a few loyal servants. The family’s brutal demise symbolized the end of the Romanov dynasty and marked a brutal chapter in the revolutionary upheaval. The exact circumstances and motivations surrounding their execution have been subject to historical inquiry and debate, but the tragic fate of the imperial family remains a poignant aspect of the Russian Revolution and the early years of Soviet rule.

Grand Duchess Anastasia

Anastasia of Russia — Anastasia/public domain

Grand Duchess Anastasia, the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, was a member of the Romanov family, the last imperial dynasty of Russia. Born in 1901, Anastasia was the fourth and youngest daughter, known for her spirited and playful nature. After the Russian Revolution in 1917, Anastasia, along with her family, was placed under house arrest by the Bolsheviks. Tragically, they were executed in 1918 during the Russian Civil War. In the years following the massacre, rumors and claims of Anastasia’s survival persisted, leading to various impostors and legends. However, it wasn’t until the discovery of the Romanovs’ remains in the 1990s that DNA testing confirmed their identities. The story of Anastasia’s life, the mystery surrounding her fate, and the subsequent efforts to uncover the truth have captivated the public and become part of the enduring legacy of the Romanovs.

Alexander Kerensky

Alexander Kerensky played a pivotal role in the Russian Provisional Government during the turbulent period following the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II in 1917. As a prominent political figure and member of the Socialist Revolutionary Party, Kerensky rose to prominence and became Minister of Justice in the new government. Later, he assumed the role of Minister of War and ultimately became the head of the Provisional Government. Kerensky aimed to steer Russia toward a democratic path and continue its participation in World War I. However, his leadership faced immense challenges, including internal divisions, military failures, and social unrest. The Provisional Government’s decision to continue the war and the failure to address land and bread shortages contributed to its declining popularity. Kerensky’s efforts to maintain stability ultimately faltered, paving the way for the Bolsheviks to seize power in the October Revolution later in 1917. The brief tenure of the Provisional Government, including Kerensky’s leadership, marked a transitional phase in Russian history as the nation moved from autocracy to socialist rule under the Bolsheviks.

The Bolsheviks

The Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, emerged as a revolutionary faction during the tumultuous period following the February Revolution of 1917 in Russia. Comprising radical socialists within the broader Marxist movement, the Bolsheviks advocated for the establishment of a socialist state through the overthrow of the Provisional Government. In October 1917, they orchestrated the October Revolution, seizing key government buildings in Petrograd (formerly St. Petersburg) and effectively taking control of the state. The Bolsheviks, also known as the Communist Party, aimed to implement Marxist principles, including the nationalization of industry and the redistribution of land. Under Lenin’s leadership, they worked to consolidate power, eventually leading to the creation of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. The Bolsheviks’ rise marked a pivotal moment in Russian history, laying the foundation for the establishment of the Soviet Union and transforming the country into the world’s first socialist state.

Vladimir Lenin

Vladimir Lenin, a central figure in the Russian Revolution, was the leader of the Bolshevik Party and a key architect of the socialist transformation in Russia. Born in 1870, Lenin rose to prominence through his radical Marxist views, advocating for the overthrow of the Provisional Government and the establishment of a socialist state. He was exiled from Russia multiple times for his radical views. A charismatic and strategic leader, Lenin played a pivotal role in orchestrating the October Revolution of 1917, which resulted in the Bolshevik seizure of power. As the head of the new government, Lenin pursued a series of policies aimed at consolidating socialist control, including the nationalization of industry and the redistribution of land. His leadership laid the groundwork for the formation of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic and, eventually, the creation of the Soviet Union. Lenin’s ideas and actions profoundly shaped the course of Russian and world history during the early 20th century.

Lenin’s April Theses

Vladimir Lenin’s April Theses, announced in April 1917 upon his return to Petrograd from exile, encapsulated his vision for the revolutionary transformation of Russia in the aftermath of the February Revolution. Lenin’s theses outlined key points, including the call for “All Power to the Soviets,” advocating for the transfer of authority to the workers’ and soldiers’ councils. He rejected support for the Provisional Government and its continuation of the war, urging an immediate end to World War I with a peace based on the principles of “no annexations, no indemnities.” Lenin also emphasized the need for socialist policies, including the nationalization of land, banks, and industry. The April Theses became a rallying cry for the Bolsheviks and played a crucial role in shaping the ideological direction of the October Revolution later in 1917, which led to the Bolshevik seizure of power and the establishment of a socialist government in Russia.

The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk

The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, signed on March 3, 1918, marked a significant turning point in World War I and the Russian Revolution. Negotiated between Soviet Russia and the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria), the treaty ended Russia’s participation in the war. Under the terms of Brest-Litovsk, Russia ceded vast territories, including Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic states, to the Central Powers. The treaty reflected the Bolshevik government’s desire for peace and the prioritization of consolidating power domestically. While it allowed Russia to exit the war, the territorial losses were immense and had lasting geopolitical consequences. Brest-Litovsk highlighted the complex challenges faced by the Bolsheviks, as they grappled with internal revolution, civil war, and the necessity of making significant territorial concessions to secure peace on the Eastern Front during a turbulent period in Russian history.

The Russian Civil War

The Russian Civil War (1918-1922) unfolded as a tumultuous and multifaceted conflict between the Bolshevik Red Army, loyal to the Communist government, and the anti-Bolshevik White Army, composed of a diverse array of forces opposing the new regime. Triggered by the Bolshevik seizure of power in the October Revolution of 1917 and fueled by political, social, and economic upheavals, the Civil War was marked by widespread violence, including foreign intervention by nations opposing the Bolsheviks. The White Army comprised various factions, ranging from monarchists and anti-communists to nationalists and liberals, united in their opposition to Bolshevik rule. The war devastated the country, leading to famine and economic collapse. Ultimately, the Red Army emerged victorious, solidifying the Bolsheviks’ control and paving the way for the establishment of the Soviet Union. The Russian Civil War left an indelible mark on the nation’s history, shaping its political trajectory and the subsequent evolution of the Soviet state.

The Soviet Union

The formation of the Soviet Union, officially known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), took place in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Russian Civil War. The Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, emerged victorious in the civil conflict, consolidating power and establishing a socialist government. On December 30, 1922, the Treaty on the Creation of the USSR was signed, unifying several former Russian territories into a single federal state. The Soviet Union comprised various republics, including Ukraine, Belarus, and the Transcaucasian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. The new state aimed to implement Marxist-Leninist principles, emphasizing a planned economy, state ownership of industry, and the establishment of a classless society. Lenin’s death in 1924 led to a power struggle, with Joseph Stalin eventually assuming leadership. The Soviet Union went on to play a significant role in 20th-century global affairs until its dissolution in 1991.

The Red Army

The Red Army, established during the Russian Civil War (1918-1922), was the military force of the Bolshevik government led by the Communist Party under Vladimir Lenin. Formally known as the Workers’ and Peasants’ Red Army, it played a crucial role in securing the victory of the Bolsheviks against various anti-Bolshevik factions, collectively known as the White Army. The Red Army was characterized by its commitment to Marxist ideology and loyalty to the Soviet government. Led by military leaders such as Leon Trotsky, the Red Army faced significant challenges, including foreign intervention and a lack of resources. Despite these obstacles, the Red Army’s discipline, ideological fervor, and strategic capabilities contributed to the triumph of the Bolsheviks in the Russian Civil War. The Red Army played a central role in shaping the early years of the Soviet Union and its emergence as a major global power.

Leon Trotsky

Leon Trotsky, a key figure in the early years of the Soviet Union, played a crucial role in the Russian Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Bolshevik government. Born Lev Davidovich Bronstein in 1879, Trotsky was a charismatic orator, military strategist, and writer. He served as the People’s Commissar for Foreign Affairs and later as the People’s Commissar of War under Vladimir Lenin’s leadership. Trotsky played a central role in organizing and leading the Red Army during the Russian Civil War, contributing to the victory of the Bolsheviks. Despite his significant contributions, Trotsky found himself in opposition to Joseph Stalin after Lenin’s death in 1924. Eventually expelled from the Communist Party and later exiled from the Soviet Union, Trotsky continued his criticism of Stalin’s policies from abroad. His ideas and writings, including his theory of “permanent revolution,” influenced political thought and movements beyond the Soviet Union. Trotsky’s life ended tragically when he was assassinated in Mexico in 1940 on Stalin’s orders.

Joseph Stalin

Joseph Stalin, born Ioseb Besarionis dze Jughashvili in 1878, became a central figure in the Soviet Union after the death of Vladimir Lenin in 1924. Rising from the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party to become the de facto leader, Stalin implemented a series of policies that transformed the Soviet Union into an industrial and military powerhouse. His policies, known as the Five-Year Plans, aimed at rapid industrialization and collectivization of agriculture but came at a significant human cost, leading to widespread famine and the loss of millions of lives. Stalin’s leadership was marked by a cult of personality, political purges, and a totalitarian regime that suppressed dissent and opposition. The Soviet Union, under Stalin’s rule, played a crucial role in the Allied victory during World War II but also engaged in the Cold War with the Western powers. Stalin’s long tenure lasted until his death in 1953, leaving a complex and controversial legacy that continues to be a subject of historical debate.

Europe and Russia

After World War I, the relationship between the Soviet Union (formerly Russia) and Europe was marked by a complex interplay of ideological differences, geopolitical tensions, and intermittent cooperation. The Bolshevik government, led by figures like Vladimir Lenin and later Joseph Stalin, sought to spread the ideals of communism internationally, fostering revolutionary movements across Europe. However, European nations, particularly those in the West, were wary of the Bolsheviks’ expansionist aims and the potential influence of communist ideology. The Soviet Union faced isolation and hostility, particularly during the interwar years, as many European countries viewed the communist state with suspicion. The outbreak of World War II saw a temporary alignment between the Soviet Union and Western powers, including the United Kingdom and the United States, in the fight against Nazi Germany. However, this alliance was pragmatic and short-lived, as post-war ideological and geopolitical tensions quickly emerged, leading to the onset of the Cold War and the division of Europe into Western and Eastern blocs. The relationship between the Soviet Union and Europe during this period was characterized by ideological rivalry, military confrontation, and occasional diplomatic engagements.