Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution — Question 3

The Tsarist autocracy collapsed in 1917 due to a combination of following factors:

1. The Tsar, Nicholas II, imposed restrictions on political activity and changed voting laws. He dismissed any questioning of or restrictions on his authority, leading to growing dissatisfaction among the people.
2. The Tsar’s decisions during World War I were made without consulting the Duma (the Russian parliament). Large-scale casualties of Russian soldiers in the war further alienated the population from the Tsar.
3. Economic instability exacerbated the situation, affecting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
4. Social unrest was widespread, with workers and peasants demanding better conditions and higher wages. There was reduction in wages and inflation in prices of commodities.
5. The rise of revolutionary sentiments, fueled by socialist and Bolshevik movements, contributed to the collapse of the autocratic regime.