Flashcard T11:L4 (Russian Revolution)

Front

The government and economy of Russia were controlled by nobles, priests, and an autocratic ____ in 1914.

Back

Tsar

Answer explanation

In 1914, Russia was ruled by an autocratic leader known as the Tsar. This term specifically refers to the emperor of Russia, distinguishing it from other titles like Kaiser or King, which are associated with different countries.

Front

After suffering huge losses during the first year of the Great War, the Russian czar, Nicholas II, went to the front to lead his military. He left his wife, czarina Alexandra, in charge of domestic affairs. In turn, she relied on the advice of the 'mad monk', Gregory _______.

Back

Rasputin

Answer explanation

Czar Nicholas II's reliance on Czarina Alexandra during his absence led her to consult Gregory Rasputin, known for his controversial influence over the royal family, particularly in matters of state and health.

Front

_____ refers to when protests over food shortages boiled over into riots and revolution. This prompted Czar Nicholas II to abdicate as emperor in 1917.

Back

The February Revolution

Answer explanation

The February Revolution was a key event in 1917 when food shortages led to widespread protests, escalating into riots that forced Czar Nicholas II to abdicate. This distinguishes it from the other options listed.

Front

In St. Petersburg (Petrograd) and other cities, revolutionaries set up councils of workers and soldiers. These councils were known as ________. These bodies led workers, organized strikes, and fought the government of the Russian Empire politically and militarily.

Back

Soviets

Answer explanation

In St. Petersburg, the councils of workers and soldiers were called Soviets. They played a crucial role in organizing strikes and opposing the Russian Empire, making 'Soviets' the correct answer.

Front

At first, the Soviets worked democratically. But before long, the _______, a radical socialist group, took charge, led by Vladimir Lenin.

Back

Bolsheviks

Answer explanation

The Bolsheviks, a radical socialist group led by Vladimir Lenin, seized power from the more moderate Social Democrats and Mensheviks during the Russian Revolution, establishing a one-party state.

Front

The brother of _____ _____ was arrested and hanged for plotting to kill the tsar when he was 17. This resulted in his family being branded a threat to the state and this young man hating the government.

Back

Vladimir Lenin

Answer explanation

The brother of Vladimir Lenin, Alexander Ulyanov, was arrested and hanged for plotting to kill the tsar at 17. This event led to the Lenin family's persecution and fueled Vladimir's animosity towards the government.

Front

As Russia stumbled into revolution, the government of the country of ______ saw a chance to weaken its enemy by helping Lenin return home after a decade of self-imposed exile in Western Europe.

Back

Germany

Answer explanation

As Russia faced revolution, Germany saw an opportunity to destabilize its enemy by facilitating Lenin's return from exile, believing his presence would incite further unrest in Russia.

Front

In November 1917, squads of ____ _____ (armed factory workers), representing Lenin and the Bolsheviks, joined mutinous sailors from the Russian fleet in attacking the provisional government. In just a matter of days, the government was overthrown.

Back

Red Guards

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Red Guards', as they were the armed factory workers who supported Lenin and the Bolsheviks in the November 1917 uprising against the provisional government, leading to its swift overthrow.

Front

After the Bolsheviks seized power in 1917, they ended _____ ______ of land and distributed land to peasants. Workers were given control of factories and mines. A new red flag with an entwined hammer and sickle symbolized the union between workers and peasants.

Back

private ownership

Answer explanation

After the Bolsheviks seized power, they ended private ownership of land, redistributing it to peasants. This marked a significant shift towards collective control, aligning with their revolutionary goals.

Front

What contributed to the unpopular opinion of Empress Alexandra Feodorovna among Russians?

Back

Her German heritage and association with Rasputin.

Answer explanation

Empress Alexandra Feodorovna was unpopular due to her German heritage, which made her a target of suspicion during World War I, and her close association with Rasputin, who was viewed negatively by many Russians.