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The Prelude to Chaos: Russia in World War One and the Fall of Tsar Nicholas II

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on June 28, 1914, ignited World War One and drew Russia into the conflict under Tsar Nicholas II. Mobilization began with hopes of a quick victory to unite Slavs, but early victories turned to devastating defeats at Tannenberg and Masurian Lakes, resulting in massive casualties. Poor leadership and inadequate resources exacerbated the situation, while home front issues like conscription and food shortages led to war weariness. By 1916, 2 million soldiers were lost, fueling discontent towards the Tsar and contributing to the royal family's downfall.

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The Prelude to Chaos: Russia in World War One and the Fall of Tsar Nicholas II

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  1. Russia and World War One

  2. Background • 28th June, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand assassinated in Sarajevo by Bosnian nationalist GavriloPrincip. • What happened next?

  3. Tsar Nicholas II – Protector of the Slavs • Mobilised Russia’s army in August, 1914

  4. Motives • Victory in war would unite Russians • Initially greeted with enthusiasm • Thought it would be a short war • Russian Steamroller

  5. Problems • Pressure from allies (Britain and France) • Geographically isolated • Battles of Tannenberg and Masurian Lakes, two huge Russian armies were nearly wiped out. • 250,000 • By end of 1914 – 1,000,000

  6. Why? • Bad leadership – Nicholas II was Commander-In-Chief • Poorly equipped for nature of modern warfare • Inadequate field hospitals and medications

  7. Nicholas left Alexandra to control Russia • Rumoured to be having an affair with Rasputin – disgraced the royal family

  8. Impact on Russia’s countryside : Conscription Grain shortages Distribution problems Food shortages due to influx of refugees Not enough surplus food – no incentive

  9. War weariness: By 1916 – 2 million Russian soldiers killed Russians bitter towards the Tsar

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