Economic Disruption and Hardship: The war placed immense strain on the Russian economy. Industrial production declined, inflation soared, and food shortages became widespread. The burden of war fell disproportionately on the working class and peasantry, who faced increasing poverty and deprivation.
Political Discontent: The war exposed the inadequacies and weaknesses of the Tsarist regime. Military failures, high casualties, and the government's mishandling of the economy led to widespread discontent among the population. The regime's repressive policies and lack of democratic reforms further alienated the people.
Growth of Anti-War Sentiment: As the war dragged on, anti-war sentiment intensified. Many soldiers and civilians questioned the purpose and justification of the conflict, especially after significant losses in military campaigns. This sentiment found resonance among the Bolsheviks, who opposed Russia's involvement in the war and advocated for immediate peace.
Rise of the Bolsheviks: The Bolshevik Party, led by Vladimir Lenin, took advantage of the deteriorating conditions and growing discontent to mobilize the masses and build their political support. The party's anti-war stance, calls for social justice, and promises of "Peace, Land, and Bread" resonated with war-weary soldiers and peasants.
Breakdown of Discipline: The war placed enormous stress on the Russian military. Discipline and morale declined, and fraternization between soldiers and civilians increased. This weakening of military authority and the spread of revolutionary ideas within the armed forces further undermined the Tsarist regime's control.
February Revolution: In February 1917, widespread protests and strikes erupted in Petrograd (St. Petersburg), triggered by the scarcity of food and harsh working conditions. The Tsarist regime's response was slow and ineffective, and the military garrisons in the capital joined the rebellion. The result was the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, leading to the establishment of a provisional government.
Bolshevik Ascension to Power: The Bolsheviks capitalized on the chaos and uncertainty following the February Revolution to consolidate their power. They gained support from workers' councils (soviets) and gained influence in the soviets of Petrograd and Moscow. Lenin's return to Russia in April 1917 gave the Bolsheviks a charismatic leader who advocated for a socialist revolution and the transfer of power to the soviets.
October Revolution: In November 1917 (by the Gregorian calendar, which occurred in October by the Julian calendar), the Bolsheviks, under Lenin's leadership, organized the October Revolution. Armed Red Guards and revolutionary soldiers seized key points in Petrograd, including the Winter Palace, the seat of the provisional government. The Bolsheviks successfully overthrew the provisional government, establishing a socialist state known as the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (RSFSR).
In conclusion, Russia's participation in World War I exacerbated existing economic, political, and social problems, fueling widespread discontent and disillusionment among the population. These conditions provided fertile ground for the Bolsheviks to mobilize the masses, gain political support, and ultimately seize power through the Bolshevik Revolution, which transformed the course of Russian history and had profound global implications.