Succeeded

Definition

Succeeded refers to the act of achieving a desired outcome or reaching a particular goal. In the context of the Russian Revolution and its effects, it signifies the successful overthrow of the Tsarist regime and the establishment of a new government, primarily led by the Bolsheviks. This term encapsulates the various political changes that took place, illustrating how the revolution altered the course of Russian history and influenced global politics in the 20th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Russian Revolution consisted of two main events: the February Revolution, which led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, and the October Revolution, where the Bolsheviks seized power.
2. The Bolsheviks succeeded in establishing a socialist state by appealing to workers and soldiers disillusioned with the Provisional Government's inability to address their needs.
3. The success of the Bolsheviks was aided by their effective propaganda and organizational skills, which helped them gain widespread support among the masses.
4. The Russian Civil War that followed solidified Bolshevik control but also resulted in significant loss of life and economic disruption throughout Russia.
5. The changes brought about by the Russian Revolution had far-reaching effects on global politics, inspiring communist movements in other countries and altering international relations.

Review Questions

• How did the Bolsheviks succeed in gaining control during the Russian Revolution?
  • The Bolsheviks succeeded by leveraging widespread dissatisfaction with the Provisional Government, which was seen as ineffective in dealing with key issues like land reform and continuing participation in World War I. Their promise of 'peace, land, and bread' resonated deeply with soldiers and workers. Additionally, their organized structure and strong leadership under figures like Lenin allowed them to mobilize effectively during key moments, particularly during the October Revolution when they stormed key government buildings in Petrograd.
• Evaluate the consequences of the Bolshevik success for Russia and its people.
  • The success of the Bolsheviks fundamentally transformed Russia into a one-party socialist state, which led to significant social and political upheaval. While many workers and peasants initially benefitted from land redistribution and social reforms, these gains came at a high cost. The ensuing Civil War resulted in millions of deaths, widespread famine, and economic hardship. Ultimately, while Bolshevik success meant an end to tsarist autocracy, it also initiated a period of repression and totalitarian governance under leaders like Stalin.
• Analyze how the success of the Russian Revolution influenced global political movements throughout the 20th century.
  • The success of the Russian Revolution served as a powerful example for revolutionary movements worldwide, inspiring various communist parties and socialist groups across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The establishment of the Soviet Union showcased an alternative model to capitalist democracies, promoting ideologies that challenged existing political systems. This influence manifested in various forms, including civil wars, revolutions, and uprisings inspired by Marxist-Leninist principles. The global spread of these ideas also contributed to significant geopolitical tensions during events like the Cold War as nations grappled with ideological divides between capitalism and communism.

Related terms

Bolsheviks: A faction of the Marxist Russian Social Democratic Labor Party that sought to establish a socialist state through revolution, ultimately leading to the October Revolution of 1917.

Provisional Government: The temporary government established in Russia after the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, which aimed to maintain order and lead to elections but struggled to address pressing issues.

Civil War: A multi-faction conflict in Russia from 1917 to 1922 between the Red Army (Bolsheviks) and various anti-Bolshevik groups, leading to the consolidation of Bolshevik power.