2.1. The main domestic policies of the Provisional Government

What were the major challenges faced by the Provisional Government after its establishment?

• Establishing immediate legitimacy for its rule
• Implementing a wide-ranging economic plan
• Working with the Petrograd Soviet
• Maintaining support from imperial loyalists

Answer explanation

The Provisional Government struggled with legitimacy and cooperation with the Petrograd Soviet, impacting its ability to implement reforms.

Which of the following statements best summarizes the initial reaction of the Russian populace to the Provisional Government’s formation?

• There was widespread support and a sense of unity.
• The populace was immediately critical of the new government.
• The populace was largely indifferent and unengaged.
• Many expected a return to Tsarist rule immediately.

Answer explanation

The Russian populace experienced a brief period of relief and unity following the removal of Nicholas II, often referred to as a 'nationwide honeymoon.'

What can be inferred about the domestic policies of the Provisional Government in relation to the previous Tsarist regime?

• They aimed for a strict autocratic governance style.
• They focused exclusively on military reforms.
• They were fundamentally similar in approach and ideology.
• They were more radical in nature compared to the Tsarist policies.

Answer explanation

The domestic policies of the Provisional Government included reforms that were radical compared to the autocratic Tsarist regime.

How did the changes in personnel within the Provisional Government affect its reform efforts?

• They led to a consistent and effective policy implementation.
• They significantly bolstered a unified reform agenda.
• They undermined a consistent agenda of reform.
• They had little impact on the government's operations.

Answer explanation

Frequent changes in personnel within the Provisional Government greatly undermined its ability to maintain a consistent reform agenda.

What was one principle that the Provisional Government aimed to establish?

• An isolationist foreign policy
• An immediate redistribution of land
• A reversion to Tsarist autocracy
• A government of national unity

Answer explanation

The Provisional Government sought to create a government of national unity as one of its key principles.

What primarily contributed to the decline of support for the Provisional Government in Russia in 1917?

• The inaction surrounding domestic issues and the ongoing war.
• A strong alliance with the local elites.
• The immediate resolution of issues faced by the peasantry.
• The successful reforms implemented by the Provisional Government.

Answer explanation

The Provisional Government's focus on the war and failure to address domestic problems led to its decline in support.

What perception did the average peasant and worker have of the Provisional Government?

• They considered it a radical shift towards leftist policies.
• They viewed it as a sign of progress compared to Tsarism.
• They believed it would lead to greater governmental effectiveness.
• They thought it was a continuation of ineffective government from the Tsar's regime.

Answer explanation

The average peasant and worker saw the Provisional Government as a continuation of the inaction and ineffective governance of the previous regime.

What was one reason for the inaction of the Provisional Government?

• The restrictive nature of Soviet Order Number One.
• Success in managing areas they controlled.
• Its opposition to the Constituent Assembly.
• A strong mandate from the Russian people.

Answer explanation

The restrictive nature of Soviet Order Number One contributed to the Provisional Government's inaction on significant issues.

What reaction did the Provisional Government's reforms provoke among different political factions?

• Unity among the elites and workers.
• General approval from both the left and right factions.
• Support solely from the conservative elites.
• Increased opposition from both sides.

Answer explanation

The Provisional Government's attempts at reforms alienated both left and right factions, leading to increased opposition.

What issue did the Provisional Government face due to delays in constitutional processes?

• The solidification of its power and control.
• Increased public trust in governance.
• Resolution of all major problems facing Russia.
• Growing frustration and opposition from the populace.

Answer explanation

Delays and inaction regarding the vote in the Constituent Assembly led to growing frustration and opposition among the populace.