Russia's Entry into the War:
- Russia entered World War 1 in August 1914, primarily due to its alliance with Serbia, which was at odds with the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Eastern Front:
- Russia played a crucial role on the Eastern Front of the war, where it engaged in intense battles against Germany and its allies.
Early Successes:
- Initially, the Russian army achieved significant successes, capturing large swaths of territory from Austria-Hungary. However, these gains were short-lived.
Turmoil and Revolution:
- The war put immense strain on Russia's economy, infrastructure, and society. It contributed to widespread discontent and fueled revolutionary sentiments among the population.
February Revolution:
- The war played a major role in the outbreak of the February Revolution of 1917, which led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the establishment of a provisional government.
Bolshevik Revolution and Withdrawal from the War:
- The Bolshevik Party, led by Vladimir Lenin, came to power in November 1917 and immediately initiated negotiations for peace with Germany.
Brest-Litovsk Treaty:
- In March 1918, the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was signed between Russia and the Central Powers, marking Russia's formal withdrawal from World War 1.
Human and Territorial Losses:
- World War 1 resulted in massive casualties for Russia, with millions of soldiers killed, injured, or missing in action.
- Russia lost significant territories to Germany, including parts of Poland and the Baltic States.
Socioeconomic Consequences:
- The war had a devastating impact on Russia's economy, industry, and infrastructure. It led to widespread famine, disease, and social unrest.
Political Consequences:
- The Russian Empire collapsed as a result of the war, leading to the formation of the Soviet Union in 1922.
In summary, World War 1 marked a tumultuous and transformative period for Russia, contributing to the downfall of the Romanov dynasty, the rise of communism, and shaping the country's geopolitical landscape for decades to come.