러시아 혁명 (1917년) | The Russian Revolution (1917)

The Russian Revolution (1917)

At the dawn of the 20th century, the vast Russian Empire appeared majestic on the surface but was deeply fractured within. Under the autocratic rule of the Tsar, extreme inequality prevailed, and public dissatisfaction reached its zenith. In this volatile environment, a monumental event—the Russian Revolution—began to take shape, altering the course of history forever. Let us delve into this turbulent era.


Background: The Decline of an Empire
At the start of the 20th century, the Russian Empire appeared to be a formidable European power. However, internally, it was riddled with fractures. Over 80% of the population were impoverished peasants dependent on agriculture, while the rapidly growing urban industrial workforce suffered from poor working conditions and low wages. Under Tsar Nicholas II, the autocratic regime was upheld by the nobility and clergy, but society increasingly demanded change and reform.
The Russo-Japanese War in 1905 exposed the empire's weaknesses, and the subsequent 1905 Revolution, sparked by events like Bloody Sunday, revealed the depth of political discontent. The creation of the Duma (parliament) offered only limited power and failed to address the people's demands. Against this backdrop, World War I (1914–1918) exacerbated Russia's social and economic pressures.
The February Revolution: The Fall of Autocracy
By early 1917, Russia was deeply entangled in World War I. The war brought military failures and severe economic strain, and morale among soldiers plummeted. At home, food shortages and inflation fueled widespread anger, leading to massive strikes and demonstrations, particularly in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg), which became the heart of revolutionary fervor.
In March 1917 (February in the Julian calendar), mass uprisings of workers and soldiers in Petrograd forced Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate. With his resignation, the 300-year-old Romanov dynasty came to an end. In its place, a provisional government was established, but power was soon divided between this liberal government and the Petrograd Soviet, a council of workers and soldiers.
The October Revolution: Bolsheviks Seize Power
Initially, the provisional government enjoyed some support but gradually lost public trust. Its decision to continue the war went against the people's desires, and economic problems remained unresolved. Seizing this opportunity, the radical Bolsheviks gained momentum. Under Lenin’s leadership, the Bolsheviks rallied workers and peasants with the slogan "Peace, Land, and Bread," securing widespread support.
In November 1917 (October in the Julian calendar), an armed uprising erupted in Petrograd. Soldiers from the Kronstadt naval base and the Red Guards overthrew the provisional government, consolidating Bolshevik control. The so-called "October Revolution" transferred power to the Soviets, ushering in a new government under Bolshevik leadership.
Aftermath and Civil War
Following the revolution, the Bolsheviks immediately sought to withdraw from World War I, signing the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk with Germany. However, internal conflict soon escalated as factions clashed over the revolution’s direction. From 1918 to 1922, Russia was consumed by a brutal civil war between the Bolsheviks (Red Army) and the anti-revolutionary forces (White Army), resulting in millions of deaths and widespread devastation.
The Bolsheviks ultimately emerged victorious, but at a significant cost. Russia faced severe economic disarray and massive population losses. While the revolution led to the establishment of a new regime, it also set the stage for authoritarian rule and systemic oppression in the years to come.


The Russian Revolution was not merely a national event but a global turning point. It inspired hope and fear among oppressed people worldwide, reshaping 20th-century international politics and ideology. Though it championed ideals of "equality" and "freedom," its journey was marked by immense suffering and sacrifice.
Today, the Russian Revolution is more than just a historical event; it stands as a pivotal moment that shaped the modern world. It compels us to ask: What does true change mean? And who does it ultimately serve?