1. The Russian Revolution
How do the Bolsheviks (Communists) come to power in Russia?

2. A BREWING REVOLUTION
Russia was still a feudal society ruled by the Romanov Family
Peasants continually protested, most Czars did little to help
In 1894, Nicholas II becomes the Czar
Nicholas is a weak leader but tries to follow his father’s strict methods of governing
He tries to increase industrialization by using foreign investors & raising taxes
Industrialization creates problems like low pay & poor working conditions – strikes begin
Only focus on heavy industry in Russia – still behind rest of Europe
Next, Nicholas is embarrassed when he loses to Japan in the Russo-Japanese War
Major protests begin against the Czar in 1905

3. Protestors try to deliver a petition to Nicholas II asking for a constitutional monarchy & other reforms
The protestors are met by the Czar’s Army & Police force
Army opens fire on the crowd (Bloody Sunday, 1905)
Nicholas is forced to create the Russian Duma (Parliament)
His reforms fail and he dissolves the Duma 10 weeks later
In 1914, Russia becomes involved in World War I
Millions (of mostly peasants) are killed in the war
1915: Nicholas then heads to Eastern front to take personal command of troops

4. Czarina is running Russia & is getting all of her advice from Rasputin
The mysterious Rasputin (a healer for her son) gives her poor advice
The country is in even worse shape. Everyone hates Rasputin & the Romanov family!

5. Nicholas II is forced to step down from power (abdicate )
1917 March Revolution
Fed up with food shortages, the war & the Romanov family, workers begin to strike throughout Russia
Nicholas II is forced to step down from power (abdicate )
A provisional government led by Alexander Kerensky takes control
Despite originally protesting the war, Kerensky’s government decides to keep Russia fighting in WWI
Most Russians are upset by this choice - economy/shortages worsen
Communists demand change & begin using soviets (local councils)
The soviets are made up of peasants, workers and soldiers – soviets begin gaining control/influence in Russia
Down with the War!!
Down with the Autocracy!
We must honor our agreements!

6. The Bolshevik (October) Revolution
In October, Communists call for the overthrow of the Provisional Govt.
Lenin signs a treaty with Germany ending WWI for Russia
Enemies of the Bolsheviks form the White Army
White Army is made up of pro-Czar, pro-Provisional Government factions and Mensheviks
Bolsheviks form the Red Army. Civil war breaks out between the Whites & the Reds
Leon Trotsky commands the Red Army. Some nations, including the US aid the White Army
The Red Army eventually wins and Lenin maintains control
Power to the Soviets!
Mensheviks led by Martov favor a less violent overthrow - moderate
Peace, Land & Bread!
Bolsheviks led by Lenin & Trotsky favor a violent overthrow - radical
Bolsheviks storm the Winter Palace and take control of the government
Vladimir Lenin Speaks

7. Voices from the Past: Mystery of Anastasia
Please add to your notes:
How do world events change the lives of the Romanov family?
Who was Anna Anderson?
How was the mystery finally solved?