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Social & Economic Problems

History: AQA GCSE Russia, 1894-1945, topic 2.1.2

Social Problems

Kerensky and the Provisional Government had problems keeping the peasants under control.

The government and the old regime

The government and the old regime

  • The fundamental problem for the Provisional Government was that it seemed similar to the members of the 1912 AD Duma and the tsar's old regime.
  • The Provisional Government was not representative like the Soviets, which held elections.
  • Although the Provisional Government intended to hold an election, the turmoil of 1917 AD at home and at the front meant that this was impossible.
The peasantry

The peasantry

  • The Provisional Government failed to satisfy the peasants.
  • Most peasants just wanted to be left to get on with their own lives.
  • Many peasants supported the Socialist Revolutionaries, although usually peasants did not have a clear political agenda or ideology.
The redistribution of land

The redistribution of land

  • Many peasants wanted land. Some suggested that they should seize land from their former masters.
  • The government wanted to wait for an election before making sweeping changes.
  • But many peasants seized land anyway. When the Bolsheviks were looking for support, they played on the peasants’ thirst for land by promising it to them during the October Revolution.

Economic Problems

Russia was on the verge of economic collapse in 1917 AD. The Provisional Government was unable to solve these issues.

Industry

Industry

  • Basic materials for industry could not reach Russia because of the war.
  • This shortage worsened through 1917 AD, and the army was unable to fight effectively because of a lack of weapons.
Farming

Farming

  • Peasant farmers were forced to join the military.
  • This led to weaker agricultural production.
  • This led to price rises because of shortages of food.
Transport

Transport

  • Russia's railway system was unable to supply the cities effectively.
  • The system was full taking troops and supplies to the front line.
Inflation

Inflation

  • The value of the rouble also fell because of the war.
  • This contributed to even higher prices for food and other goods.

Test yourself on Social & Economic Problems

  • Which of the following about the provisional government are correct?

  • Which party did many peasants support?

  • Who replaced Prince Lvov as Prime Minister of the Provisional Government?

  • What happened to Russian industry in 1917?

  • What was Russia's transport system like in 1917 AD?

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