Provisional Government

Definition

A provisional government is a temporary authority established to manage the affairs of a state during a transitional period, often following a significant political upheaval. In the context of Russia's history during 1917, it emerged after the February Revolution as a response to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, aiming to maintain order and set the stage for a more permanent government through elections. This government faced numerous challenges, including its inability to address pressing issues like land reform and its decision to continue fighting in World War I, which ultimately led to its downfall.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Provisional Government was formed in March 1917 after the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, marking the end of centuries of Romanov rule.
2. One of the major weaknesses of the Provisional Government was its decision to continue Russia's participation in World War I, which was deeply unpopular among the Russian people.
3. The Provisional Government struggled with legitimacy as it was seen as unrepresentative by many, leading to a growing influence of revolutionary groups, especially the Bolsheviks.
4. It attempted to implement reforms such as civil liberties and preparing for elections to a Constituent Assembly but faced backlash due to its indecision on key issues like land redistribution.
5. The collapse of the Provisional Government occurred in October 1917 when the Bolsheviks launched a successful coup, leading to Lenin's rise and the establishment of a communist regime.

Review Questions

• What were the main challenges faced by the Provisional Government after its establishment in 1917?
  • The Provisional Government faced significant challenges including a lack of legitimacy among the populace, dissatisfaction with its decision to continue World War I, and internal divisions between different political factions. The ongoing social unrest and economic difficulties exacerbated its vulnerability, as many citizens were calling for immediate reforms like land redistribution. This discontent allowed revolutionary groups like the Bolsheviks to gain support and challenge the authority of the Provisional Government.
• How did the concept of Dual Power affect the effectiveness of the Provisional Government during its brief existence?
  • Dual Power created a complex political landscape where both the Provisional Government and local Soviets held authority, leading to confusion and competition for control. While the Provisional Government sought to establish order and pursue reforms, it struggled against the grassroots influence of the Soviets, which represented workers' interests. This division weakened its ability to govern effectively and fueled popular support for the Bolsheviks, who capitalized on the government's failures and promised peace, land, and bread.
• Evaluate how the failure of the Provisional Government set the stage for the Bolshevik Revolution and the rise of Lenin.
  • The failure of the Provisional Government directly paved the way for the Bolshevik Revolution by highlighting its inability to address critical issues such as war involvement and land reform. Its indecisiveness alienated both soldiers and peasants, creating an environment ripe for revolution. The Bolsheviks, under Lenin's leadership, presented themselves as a decisive alternative that promised immediate solutions to these problems. By capitalizing on public discontent and effectively organizing a coup in October 1917, they were able to seize power swiftly and establish a communist regime.

Related terms

February Revolution: The mass protests and strikes in Russia in March 1917 that resulted in the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the end of the Romanov dynasty.

Bolsheviks: A revolutionary socialist faction led by Vladimir Lenin that advocated for a proletarian revolution and eventually overthrew the provisional government in October 1917.

Dual Power: The political situation in Russia post-February Revolution where both the Provisional Government and the Soviet (workers' councils) shared power, leading to tensions and conflict.