Cause for the Russian Revolution

The autocratic rule of Tsar Nicholas II

People could no longer tolerate the autocratic rule of the Tsar Nicholas II .In addition, the scarcity of food, and increase in taxation and the class distinction between the nobles and the peasants called for a more democratic rule in Russia.

Russo-Japanese War

The defeat of Russia in the hands of Japan, an Asian power humiliated the Russians and they lost all confident on the rule of the tsar and the power of his military stenth. These had a negative impact on the people and the need for a political change was evident.

Bloody Sunday

This is an unforgettable event in the history of Russia as a group of workers led by Father Gapon in the St. Petersburg were brutally massacred as they proceeded to the Winter Palace to lay their petition to the Duma (the parliament) for better amenities, medical facilities and freedom. This led to peasant revolts, strikes, mutinies and unrest in Russia. However, no major changes were made except that the Duma was changed four times between1906 - 1917.

Dislike for Rasputin

Rasputin, a holy monk from Siberia got undue favors from the Tsarina in order to cure her son from haemophilia. He in turn used his authority wrongly and placed his family members as ministers under the influence of the Tsarina. People disliked him and were angry with the Tsar for his incompetence to stop the influence of Raputin.

World War I

The involvement of the Russians and the apathy of war was another reason for the revolution. The Russians expected victory against Germany that was attacked on all sides. However, Russia did face a series of defeat in the hands of Germany because of poor military expertise, shortage of ammunitions and poor transport system. The war was a huge drain of wealth and the Russians had to face the brunt of the war. The Russians were also sour at the loss of Ukraine, which was an important agricultural hub of Russia. People had to work hard and there was dearth for food and clothes. Men went to the war front leaving their women, children and old parents to work in the farm or the factories. All these infuriated the people and thus led to the revolution.