Part A – Multiple Choice Questions (20)
Q1. Who was the founder of the Russian Social Democratic Workers’ Party?
(a) Karl Marx
(b) Lenin
(c) George Plekhanov
(d) Trotsky
Answer: (c) George Plekhanov
Q2. Who wrote The Communist Manifesto?
(a) Lenin
(b) Marx & Engels
(c) Stalin
(d) Kerensky
Answer: (b) Marx & Engels
Q3. The Russian Revolution took place in:
(a) 1905
(b) 1914
(c) 1917
(d) 1920
Answer: (c) 1917
Q4. The Bolsheviks were led by:
(a) Trotsky
(b) Stalin
(c) Lenin
(d) Kerensky
Answer: (c) Lenin
Q5. Which event triggered the 1905 Revolution?
(a) February Revolution
(b) Bloody Sunday
(c) October Revolution
(d) WWI
Answer: (b) Bloody Sunday
Q6. Lenin’s famous slogan was:
(a) Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
(b) Peace, Bread, and Land
(c) Freedom or Death
(d) One Man, One Vote
Answer: (b) Peace, Bread, and Land
Q7. The Russian Parliament formed after 1905 was called:
(a) Duma
(b) Politburo
(c) Soviet
(d) Congress
Answer: (a) Duma
Q8. Mensheviks supported:
(a) Immediate revolution
(b) Gradual reforms
(c) Tsar’s rule
(d) Collectivisation
Answer: (b) Gradual reforms
Q9. In which war was Russia defeated in 1905?
(a) WWI
(b) Russo-Japanese War
(c) Crimean War
(d) Cold War
Answer: (b) Russo-Japanese War
Q10. Which international organisation was founded in 1919?
(a) Comintern
(b) League of Nations
(c) Warsaw Pact
(d) Soviet Union
Answer: (a) Comintern
Q11. Matching Type
- Lenin – (i) Bolshevik leader
- Stalin – (ii) Collectivisation
- Kerensky – (iii) Menshevik leader
- Karl Marx – (iv) Communist Manifesto
Answer: 1-(i), 2-(ii), 3-(iii), 4-(iv)
Q12. The February Revolution began in:
(a) Moscow
(b) Petrograd
(c) Warsaw
(d) Kiev
Answer: (b) Petrograd
Q13. Tsar Nicholas II abdicated in:
(a) 1905
(b) 1914
(c) 1917
(d) 1921
Answer: (c) 1917
Q14. Bolsheviks renamed their party as:
(a) Labour Party
(b) Socialist Party
(c) Communist Party
(d) Revolutionary Party
Answer: (c) Communist Party
Q15. Who introduced collectivisation?
(a) Lenin
(b) Stalin
(c) Trotsky
(d) Kerensky
Answer: (b) Stalin
Q16. Soviets were:
(a) Noble councils
(b) Workers’ and soldiers’ councils
(c) Tsar’s ministers
(d) Judges
Answer: (b) Workers’ and soldiers’ councils
Q17. Who commanded the Red Army?
(a) Stalin
(b) Trotsky
(c) Kerensky
(d) Marx
Answer: (b) Trotsky
Q18. The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was signed with:
(a) Germany
(b) Britain
(c) Japan
(d) USA
Answer: (a) Germany
Q19. Case-based
Text: “On 22 January 1905, a procession led by Father Gapon was fired upon by Tsar’s troops.”
What is this event called?
(a) Bloody Sunday
(b) Red Terror
(c) February Massacre
(d) October Strike
Answer: (a) Bloody Sunday
Q20. Which countries were inspired by the Russian Revolution?
(a) China and Germany
(b) Britain and USA
(c) France and Italy
(d) Spain and Portugal
Answer: (a) China and Germany
Part B – Assertion – Reason (20 Que)
Each question has four options:
a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is true, but R is false.
d) A is false, but R is true.
Q1.
Assertion (A): Karl Marx believed that industrial society was capitalist.
Reason (R): Capitalists owned the factories and exploited workers.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q2.
Assertion (A): The February Revolution of 1917 led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II.
Reason (R): Workers, soldiers, and peasants together revolted against autocracy.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q3.
Assertion (A): The Bolsheviks wanted to overthrow the Provisional Government.
Reason (R): They demanded transfer of power to Soviets of workers, peasants, and soldiers.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q4.
Assertion (A): Socialists were against private property.
Reason (R): They believed property should be controlled by society or government.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q5.
Assertion (A): The Russian Revolution of 1917 created the world’s first socialist state.
Reason (R): The Bolsheviks under Lenin introduced policies of equality and socialism.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q6.
Assertion (A): The Mensheviks wanted gradual reforms instead of a sudden revolution.
Reason (R): They believed Russia was not industrially developed enough for socialism.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q7.
Assertion (A): Lenin gave the slogan “Peace, Bread, and Land”.
Reason (R): He wanted to win support of workers, peasants, and soldiers.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q8.
Assertion (A): Soviets were councils of workers and soldiers in Russia.
Reason (R): They discussed political matters and demanded rights.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q9.
Assertion (A): The Russian monarchy collapsed in 1917 due to World War I.
Reason (R): Heavy losses, food shortages, and economic crisis weakened Tsar’s rule.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q10.
Assertion (A): The Bolshevik government signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk in 1918.
Reason (R): Russia wanted to withdraw from World War I.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q11.
Assertion (A): The Russian Revolution inspired workers’ movements worldwide.
Reason (R): It proved that workers and peasants could overthrow monarchy.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q12.
Assertion (A): The Comintern was formed in 1919.
Reason (R): It aimed to unite workers of the world and spread socialism.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q13.
Assertion (A): Industrialisation in Europe created social inequality.
Reason (R): Workers had miserable lives while capitalists grew rich.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q14.
Assertion (A): Lenin opposed Russia’s participation in World War I.
Reason (R): He believed it was an imperialist war that harmed workers.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q15.
Assertion (A): Peasants in Russia supported the Bolsheviks.
Reason (R): The Bolsheviks promised land redistribution and abolition of feudal dues.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q16.
Assertion (A): After the October Revolution, all industries were nationalised.
Reason (R): The aim was to abolish private ownership and establish socialist control.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q17.
Assertion (A): The Duma was a parliament created in Russia.
Reason (R): Tsar Nicholas II introduced it after the 1905 Revolution but retained real power.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q18.
Assertion (A): The February Revolution was spontaneous.
Reason (R): Workers and soldiers protested without leadership of political parties.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q19.
Assertion (A): The Mensheviks and Bolsheviks were factions of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party.
Reason (R): They differed on how to achieve socialism in Russia.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Q20.
Assertion (A): The Russian Revolution ended monarchy in Russia.
Reason (R): Tsar Nicholas II abdicated in March 1917 after mass protests.
✅ Answer: a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Part C – Very Short Answer (20)
Q1. Who was Karl Marx?
Answer: A German philosopher who co-authored The Communist Manifesto and proposed the theory of scientific socialism.
Q2. Define socialism.
Answer: An ideology advocating collective ownership of resources and equal distribution of wealth.
Q3. Who were Bolsheviks?
Answer: A radical socialist faction in Russia led by Lenin, supporting immediate revolution.
Q4. Who were Mensheviks?
Answer: Moderates in the Russian Social Democratic Party, favoring gradual reforms.
Q5. What happened on Bloody Sunday?
Answer: Tsar’s troops fired on a peaceful procession of workers in 1905, killing many.
Q6. Define Soviets.
Answer: Councils of workers, peasants, and soldiers formed during revolutionary movements.
Q7. What were the April Theses?
Answer: Lenin’s program demanding “Peace, Bread, and Land” and power to Soviets.
Q8. Why was Tsar Nicholas II unpopular?
Answer: He was autocratic, failed in wars, and ignored people’s demands.
Q9. When did the February Revolution take place?
Answer: March 1917, beginning with strikes and protests in Petrograd.
Q10. What was the October Revolution?
Answer: Bolsheviks seized power in October 1917, overthrowing the Provisional Government.
Q11. What was Stalin’s collectivisation?
Answer: Policy forcing peasants into collective farms to increase food supply.
Q12. Why did Russia withdraw from WWI?
Answer: Lenin signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk (1918) with Germany.
Q13. Who were Kulaks?
Answer: Wealthy peasants in Russia targeted during collectivisation.
Q14. What was the Comintern?
Answer: Communist International (1919), to promote worldwide socialism.
Q15. Define Duma.
Answer: The Russian Parliament set up after the 1905 Revolution.
Q16. Who was Trotsky?
Answer: A Bolshevik leader, commander of the Red Army.
Q17. What was the Red Army?
Answer: Military force of the Bolsheviks during the Civil War.
Q18. What was the Russian Civil War?
Answer: Conflict (1918–20) between Bolsheviks (Red Army) and anti-Bolsheviks (White Army).
Q19. Who succeeded Lenin?
Answer: Joseph Stalin.
Q20. Name two countries inspired by the Revolution.
Answer: China and Germany.
Part D – Short Answer (20)
Q1. What were the main ideas of Karl Marx about capitalism and socialism?
Answer: Karl Marx believed capitalism created inequality because the bourgeoisie exploited workers. He argued that workers should unite, overthrow capitalism, and establish socialism. In a socialist society, private property would be abolished, means of production owned collectively, and wealth distributed equally, ensuring justice for all.
Q2. Differentiate between the Bolsheviks and the Mensheviks.
Answer: The Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, believed in a radical revolution to transfer power to Soviets. They wanted immediate change. The Mensheviks, on the other hand, supported gradual reforms and thought Russia first needed to become industrially advanced before socialism could succeed. Both groups emerged from the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party.
Q3. Why was Tsar Nicholas II unpopular among the Russian people?
Answer: Tsar Nicholas II was seen as an autocratic and inefficient ruler. His policies neglected common people, and his government failed to address poverty, food shortages, and political freedom. Russia’s humiliating defeat in wars and heavy losses during World War I further discredited him, leading to mass protests and eventual abdication in 1917.
Q4. Explain the impact of the 1905 Revolution in Russia.
Answer: The 1905 Revolution forced Tsar Nicholas II to make concessions. He created the Duma, a parliament, but still retained absolute powers. Though reforms were promised, they were not fully implemented. The revolution, however, exposed weaknesses in monarchy and planted seeds for the 1917 Revolution, strengthening workers’ and peasants’ demands for real change.
Q5. What was the significance of the February Revolution of 1917?
Answer: The February Revolution of 1917 marked the end of Tsarist monarchy in Russia. Soldiers, workers, and women marched demanding bread, peace, and democracy. Tsar Nicholas II abdicated, and a Provisional Government was formed. Though temporary, this revolution paved the way for the October Revolution, where the Bolsheviks seized power and established socialism.
Q6. State the differences between socialism and capitalism.
Answer: Capitalism is based on private ownership of industries and profit-making, where wealth is unevenly distributed. Socialism, on the other hand, emphasizes collective ownership of resources, welfare of all, and equal opportunities. While capitalism prioritises competition, socialism seeks cooperation, equality, and protection of workers against exploitation. Both ideologies shaped Europe’s 19th and 20th century politics.
Q7. How did the First World War contribute to the Russian Revolution?
Answer: World War I caused immense suffering in Russia. Millions of soldiers died, industries collapsed, and food shortages worsened. Inflation and unemployment grew, while the Tsar ignored public demands. Soldiers deserted the frontlines, and peasants seized land. The war exposed weaknesses in monarchy, creating conditions for the February and October Revolutions of 1917.
Q8. Why was Lenin important in the Russian Revolution?
Answer: Lenin was a key leader of the Bolsheviks who inspired workers and peasants with his slogan, “Peace, Bread, and Land.” He demanded withdrawal from World War I and immediate transfer of power to Soviets. Lenin’s leadership, strategic planning, and clear socialist vision played a decisive role in the October Revolution’s success.
Q9. What was the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk (1918)?
Answer: The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was signed between Bolshevik Russia and Germany in 1918. Lenin’s government accepted harsh terms, ceding large territories to Germany. However, Lenin prioritized peace to withdraw from World War I and focus on internal reforms. Though controversial, the treaty strengthened the Bolsheviks’ position in Russia after the revolution.
Q10. Explain the role of Soviets in the Russian Revolution.
Answer: Soviets were councils of workers, peasants, and soldiers formed during the 1905 and 1917 revolutions. They acted as grassroots political organizations, demanding rights, peace, and better living conditions. During the October Revolution, Soviets took control of cities, replaced the Provisional Government, and became a central pillar of the new socialist state in Russia.
Q11. Why did the Provisional Government fail in Russia?
Answer: The Provisional Government, formed after the February Revolution, failed because it continued Russia’s participation in World War I, worsening suffering. It also delayed land reforms, angering peasants. Workers lost faith as inflation rose. Its inability to solve basic issues of peace, bread, and land led to its downfall in October 1917.
Q12. What was the Comintern, and why was it established?
Answer: The Communist International (Comintern) was founded in 1919 in Moscow. Its aim was to unite socialist and communist parties worldwide, spread revolutionary ideas, and encourage global socialism. It inspired movements in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Comintern also coordinated strategies to challenge imperialism and capitalist systems across the world.
Q13. How did industrialization in Europe create conditions for socialism?
Answer: Industrialization led to factories, urbanization, and new social classes. Capitalists became rich, but workers faced long hours, low wages, and poor conditions. Growing inequality created resentment. Socialist thinkers like Marx and Engels proposed collective ownership and equal rights. Workers’ struggles against exploitation eventually fueled socialist and communist movements across Europe.
Q14. What was the role of women in the Russian Revolution?
Answer: Women played an active role in Russia’s revolutionary movements. They worked in factories, organized strikes, and led protests. On International Women’s Day in February 1917, women demanded bread and peace, sparking mass demonstrations. Their courage inspired workers and soldiers to join, which ultimately triggered the February Revolution and downfall of Tsar.
Q15. Why was the October Revolution of 1917 significant?
Answer: The October Revolution was significant because it brought the Bolsheviks to power, making Russia the first socialist state in the world. It overthrew the Provisional Government, introduced land redistribution, nationalised industries, and prioritized workers’ rights. The event inspired global revolutionary movements and changed the course of 20th-century world history.
Q16. What changes were introduced by the Bolsheviks after coming to power?
Answer: After 1917, the Bolsheviks abolished private property, nationalised banks and industries, redistributed land to peasants, and improved workers’ rights. They introduced a new socialist constitution, promoted equality, and withdrew from World War I. These measures transformed Russia into a socialist state and laid the foundation for the Soviet Union.
Q17. What was the importance of Karl Marx’s book The Communist Manifesto?
Answer: Published in 1848 by Marx and Engels, The Communist Manifesto criticised capitalism and called for workers to unite against exploitation. It outlined the theory of class struggle and the vision of a socialist society. The book became a guiding document for socialist movements worldwide and influenced the Russian Revolution deeply.
Q18. Explain the slogan “Peace, Bread, and Land.”
Answer: Lenin raised this slogan to address people’s urgent needs during 1917. “Peace” promised an end to World War I, “Bread” symbolised food security amid shortages, and “Land” represented redistribution to peasants. This slogan attracted workers, peasants, and soldiers, making the Bolshevik Revolution successful by uniting people under simple but powerful demands.
Q19. Why did socialism appeal to workers and peasants?
Answer: Socialism appealed because it promised equality, justice, and better living standards. Workers supported it as it opposed exploitation in factories, while peasants welcomed land reforms and abolition of feudal dues. Socialist leaders assured redistribution of wealth and collective ownership, making the ideology attractive to oppressed classes struggling under monarchy and capitalism.
Q20. How did the Russian Revolution influence the world?
Answer: The Russian Revolution inspired anti-colonial struggles, socialist movements, and labour unions worldwide. It showed that workers and peasants could overthrow powerful rulers and establish equality. Countries like China, Cuba, and Vietnam drew lessons from it. The revolution also created fear among capitalist nations, shaping global politics throughout the 20th century.
Part E – Long Answer (10)
Q1. Explain the conditions in Russia before the 1917 Revolution.
Answer: Before 1917, Russia was an autocratic monarchy under Tsar Nicholas II. Most people were peasants living in poverty, while nobles and clergy enjoyed privileges. Workers faced harsh conditions in factories with long hours and low wages. There was no political freedom, and the Tsar suppressed opposition. Russia’s defeat in wars, such as with Japan (1905) and later in World War I, worsened the crisis. Food shortages, inflation, and military losses caused unrest. Discontent grew among workers, peasants, and soldiers. Strikes and protests became common. The monarchy had lost legitimacy, and revolutionary groups like the Bolsheviks gained influence. These conditions created the foundation for the February and October Revolutions of 1917.
Q2. Describe the role of Karl Marx in shaping socialist ideas.
Answer: Karl Marx was a German philosopher and economist who, along with Friedrich Engels, developed the theory of scientific socialism. In The Communist Manifesto (1848), he argued that history was shaped by class struggle between the rich bourgeoisie and the exploited workers (proletariat). Marx believed capitalism was unjust and would eventually collapse. He proposed that workers should unite, overthrow capitalism, abolish private property, and establish a classless society based on collective ownership. His ideas inspired socialists around the world and became the guiding ideology for many revolutionary movements, including the Russian Revolution of 1917. Lenin and the Bolsheviks drew heavily from Marx’s theory to create the world’s first socialist state.
Q3. Differentiate between the ideas of liberals, radicals, and conservatives in Europe.
Answer: In 19th-century Europe, three distinct groups shaped political thought. Liberals wanted constitutional governments, individual rights, and limited monarchy, but they supported property qualifications for voting, thus favoring the middle class. Radicals went further, demanding universal male suffrage, equality, and governments based on the will of the people. They opposed privileges of the aristocracy and church. Conservatives, on the other hand, defended monarchy, aristocracy, and existing traditions, fearing that rapid change would create instability. They wanted gradual reforms, not revolutions. These competing ideas clashed in Europe, creating fertile ground for socialist movements. Socialism later appealed to workers and peasants because it promised equality, social justice, and redistribution of resources, unlike the limited reforms offered by liberals and conservatives.
Q4. Discuss the impact of industrialisation on workers in Europe.
Answer: Industrialisation in Europe transformed economies but created harsh conditions for workers. Factories employed men, women, and even children for long hours at low wages. Housing in industrial cities was overcrowded and unsanitary. Accidents were common due to unsafe machinery. While industrialists grew rich, workers suffered exploitation and had no rights or social security. The inequality generated resentment and fueled workers’ protests, strikes, and trade union movements. It also gave rise to socialist ideas, as thinkers like Karl Marx argued that industrial society was unjust under capitalism. Socialism promised collective ownership, fair wages, and better conditions. Thus, industrialisation not only modernised Europe but also became the root cause for the growth of socialism and revolutionary movements.
Q5. Explain the events and significance of the 1905 Revolution in Russia.
Answer: The 1905 Revolution in Russia began with “Bloody Sunday,” when peaceful protesters led by Father Gapon marched to the Winter Palace demanding reforms. The Tsar’s soldiers fired on them, killing hundreds, sparking outrage across the country. Strikes, protests, and uprisings spread in cities and countryside. Workers formed Soviets (councils), peasants attacked landlords, and soldiers mutinied. Tsar Nicholas II was forced to issue the October Manifesto, promising reforms and creating the Duma, a parliament. However, he continued to hold power, and reforms were limited. Though the revolution failed to overthrow monarchy, it exposed the weaknesses of Tsarism and inspired future movements. It also gave rise to Soviets, which later became powerful during the 1917 revolutions.
Q6. Describe the February Revolution of 1917 in Russia.
Answer: The February Revolution was a mass uprising that ended centuries of Tsarist rule in Russia. It began with food shortages, strikes, and demonstrations in Petrograd, especially by women workers demanding bread. Soldiers mutinied and joined the protests. The scale of unrest forced Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate in March 1917. A Provisional Government was formed, but it lacked support as it continued Russia’s involvement in World War I and delayed land reforms. Meanwhile, Soviets of workers and soldiers gained influence. The February Revolution was spontaneous, leaderless, and marked the collapse of autocracy. Though it did not immediately establish socialism, it created conditions for the Bolshevik-led October Revolution later the same year.
Q7. Explain the role of Lenin in the Russian Revolution.
Answer: Lenin, leader of the Bolsheviks, was central to the success of the Russian Revolution. He opposed Russia’s participation in World War I, calling it an imperialist conflict that harmed workers and peasants. Returning from exile in April 1917, he presented the “April Theses,” demanding withdrawal from the war, redistribution of land, and transfer of power to Soviets. His slogan “Peace, Bread, and Land” won mass support. Lenin organised the Bolsheviks, strengthened workers’ Soviets, and prepared for a takeover. In October 1917, the Bolsheviks seized power in Petrograd under his leadership. As head of the new government, Lenin introduced socialist policies, nationalised industries, and redistributed land. His vision and determination made him the architect of socialist Russia.
Q8. Describe the October Revolution of 1917 and its impact.
Answer: The October Revolution was led by the Bolsheviks under Lenin. On 25 October 1917, they organised an armed uprising in Petrograd against the Provisional Government. The Red Guards took control of key buildings, communication centres, and stormed the Winter Palace. The Provisional Government was overthrown, and power was transferred to the Soviets. The Bolsheviks introduced socialist policies, including nationalisation of industries, land redistribution, and withdrawal from World War I through the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk (1918). The revolution created the world’s first socialist state, inspiring workers’ and peasants’ movements globally. It marked a turning point in history, challenging capitalism and colonialism, and shaping the politics of the 20th century.
Q9. Why did the Provisional Government in Russia fail?
Answer: The Provisional Government, formed after the February Revolution of 1917, quickly lost popularity. It continued Russia’s participation in World War I, causing further deaths, hunger, and economic collapse. It delayed land reforms, disappointing peasants. Workers grew frustrated as inflation rose and strikes increased. The Soviets of workers and soldiers gained more trust from people, challenging the government’s authority. The government was also weak, lacking decisive leadership and mass support. The Bolsheviks under Lenin used slogans like “Peace, Bread, and Land” to mobilise people. Eventually, the October Revolution overthrew the Provisional Government. Its failure showed that half-hearted reforms and continued war could not meet people’s urgent needs for peace, bread, and equality.
Q10. What changes did the Bolsheviks introduce after coming to power in Russia?
Answer: After the October Revolution, the Bolsheviks transformed Russia into a socialist state. They abolished private ownership of land and redistributed it to peasants. All banks and industries were nationalised. Soviets were given real power to represent workers and peasants. Russia withdrew from World War I by signing the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk in 1918. Education, health, and employment became state responsibilities. Women were granted equal rights in marriage, property, and employment. Religious institutions lost political privileges, and a new socialist constitution was introduced. These changes ensured equality, justice, and workers’ control. The Bolsheviks’ policies created the foundation for the Soviet Union, the world’s first socialist republic, and inspired revolutions across the globe.
Part E – Case Based QAs (10)
Case Study 1
Text:
“In January 1905, a procession of workers led by Father Gapon marched to the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, demanding better wages, reduced working hours, and an end to war. The Tsar’s troops opened fire on peaceful demonstrators, killing hundreds. This event, remembered as ‘Bloody Sunday,’ sparked widespread strikes, uprisings, and mutinies across Russia.”
Q1. Who led the procession of workers in January 1905?
Answer: Father Gapon led the procession.
Q2. What were the demands of the workers?
Answer: They demanded better wages, reduced working hours, and an end to war.
Q3. Why is this event called ‘Bloody Sunday’?
Answer: Because the Tsar’s troops fired on unarmed protesters, killing hundreds.
Q4. What was the immediate consequence of this massacre?
Answer: It sparked the 1905 Revolution with strikes, protests, and mutinies across Russia.
Case Study 2
Text:
“In April 1917, Lenin returned to Russia from exile. He announced his April Theses, demanding immediate withdrawal from the war, redistribution of land to peasants, and transfer of power to the Soviets. His slogan ‘Peace, Bread, and Land’ captured the imagination of workers and peasants who were disillusioned with the Provisional Government.”
Q1. Who announced the April Theses?
Answer: Lenin announced the April Theses.
Q2. What were the key demands in the April Theses?
Answer: Withdrawal from the war, redistribution of land, and power to Soviets.
Q3. What slogan did Lenin raise to mobilise people?
Answer: “Peace, Bread, and Land.”
Q4. Why did people support Lenin’s ideas?
Answer: Because they were tired of war, wanted land reforms, and trusted Soviets over the Provisional Government.
Case Study 3
Text:
“The February Revolution of 1917 began with food shortages and protests by women workers in Petrograd. Strikes spread quickly, and soldiers eventually refused to fire on demonstrators. The Tsar was forced to abdicate, ending centuries of autocratic rule. A Provisional Government was formed, but it soon lost support.”
Q1. Who initiated the February Revolution of 1917?
Answer: Women workers protesting against food shortages initiated it.
Q2. Why did the soldiers refuse to fire on the protesters?
Answer: They sympathised with the people’s suffering and demands.
Q3. What was the immediate outcome of this revolution?
Answer: Tsar Nicholas II abdicated, ending autocratic monarchy.
Q4. Why did the Provisional Government fail to gain people’s trust?
Answer: It continued the war and delayed land reforms.
Case Study 4
Text:
“On 25 October 1917, the Bolsheviks under Lenin staged an armed uprising in Petrograd. Red Guards took control of key government offices, telegraph lines, and the Winter Palace. The Provisional Government was overthrown, and power was handed over to the Soviets. This marked the beginning of the world’s first socialist state.”
Q1. When did the Bolsheviks seize power in Petrograd?
Answer: On 25 October 1917.
Q2. Who led the Bolshevik Revolution?
Answer: Lenin.
Q3. What was captured by the Red Guards during the uprising?
Answer: Key government offices, telegraph lines, and the Winter Palace.
Q4. What was the historical importance of this event?
Answer: It established the world’s first socialist state.
Case Study 5
Text:
“Industrialisation in Europe brought rapid economic change but also misery for workers. They worked long hours in unsafe factories for low wages. Housing was overcrowded and unhealthy. This inequality gave rise to protests, trade unions, and socialist thinkers who argued that wealth should be shared equally.”
Q1. What problems did workers face during industrialisation?
Answer: Long hours, unsafe conditions, low wages, and poor housing.
Q2. Why did inequality increase during industrialisation?
Answer: Industrialists became rich while workers remained exploited.
Q3. How did workers respond to their condition?
Answer: Through protests, strikes, and forming trade unions.
Q4. Which new ideology grew stronger due to this inequality?
Answer: Socialism.
Case Study 6
Text:
“The Russian peasants, who formed the majority of the population, suffered heavy taxation, poverty, and lack of land. They often had to work on landlords’ estates and pay rent in kind. During revolutionary movements, they supported the Bolsheviks because they promised land redistribution.”
Q1. Why were Russian peasants discontented?
Answer: Because of poverty, heavy taxation, and shortage of land.
Q2. How did they pay rent to landlords?
Answer: Mostly in kind, such as crops.
Q3. Which party won their support during the revolution?
Answer: The Bolshevik Party.
Q4. What did the Bolsheviks promise to peasants?
Answer: Redistribution of land.
Case Study 7
Text:
“After the October Revolution, the Bolsheviks introduced sweeping reforms. Industries and banks were nationalised. Land was redistributed among peasants. Education and healthcare became state responsibilities. Women were granted equal rights, and marriage was secularised. These measures aimed to build a socialist society.”
Q1. What happened to industries and banks under the Bolsheviks?
Answer: They were nationalised.
Q2. How did peasants benefit from the reforms?
Answer: They received land through redistribution.
Q3. What rights were granted to women?
Answer: Equal rights in marriage, property, and employment.
Q4. What was the overall aim of these reforms?
Answer: To build a socialist society based on equality.
Case Study 8
Text:
“The Civil War in Russia (1918–21) broke out between the Bolshevik Red Army and the White forces, supported by foreign powers. The war caused destruction, famine, and loss of life. Despite hardships, the Red Army emerged victorious, consolidating Bolshevik power.”
Q1. When did the Russian Civil War take place?
Answer: Between 1918 and 1921.
Q2. Who fought against the Bolsheviks?
Answer: The White forces supported by foreign powers.
Q3. What problems did the war cause in Russia?
Answer: Destruction, famine, and heavy loss of life.
Q4. What was the outcome of the Civil War?
Answer: The Red Army won and consolidated Bolshevik power.
Case Study 9
Text:
“The Russian participation in the First World War drained resources and caused immense suffering. Soldiers were ill-equipped, food shortages worsened, and inflation rose sharply. Millions died on the front, while people at home starved. This crisis turned people against the Tsar and strengthened revolutionary movements.”
Q1. How did Russia’s involvement in World War I affect its economy?
Answer: It drained resources and caused inflation.
Q2. What problems did Russian soldiers face?
Answer: They were poorly equipped and suffered heavy losses.
Q3. How did ordinary people suffer during the war?
Answer: They faced food shortages and starvation.
Q4. What political impact did the war have on Russia?
Answer: It discredited the Tsar and boosted revolutionary movements.
Case Study 10
Text:
“Karl Marx argued that history was shaped by class struggle between the bourgeoisie (owners of capital) and the proletariat (workers). He believed capitalism would collapse and be replaced by a classless society based on collective ownership. His ideas inspired socialist movements, including the Russian Revolution.”
Q1. According to Marx, what drives history?
Answer: Class struggle between bourgeoisie and proletariat.
Q2. What did Marx predict about capitalism?
Answer: That it would eventually collapse.
Q3. What kind of society did Marx want?
Answer: A classless society based on collective ownership.
Q4. How did Marx’s ideas influence Russia?
Answer: They inspired socialist leaders like Lenin and guided the revolution.