The Bolsheviks, under Lenin's leadership, cultivate feelings of discontent and organize strikes.
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!2
In December 1916, the internal state of Russia is precarious. The Tsar is politically isolated and universally unpopular.
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!4
In the February Revolution, the government of Tsar Nicholas II introduces bread and flour rationing in Petrograd causing a mass strike. On the third day of protest, police begin firing on striking workers.
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!5
On March 12, the Petrograd Soviet of workers and the Duma form a 'Provisional Committee', later to become a 'Provisional Government'.
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!6
From March-May conflict in the dual power begins to emerge. There is disagreement on whether to continue the war (WWI) and war aims.
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!7
Lenin returns from exile in Switzerland. There is a change of Bolshevik policy in supporting the Provisional Government.
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!8
In the April Theses Lenin advocates the overthrow of the Provisional Government and government by the Soviets for the working class. He also advocates the redistribution of land to peasants and signature of a peace treaty with Germany. Policy of 'All Power to the Soviet'.
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!9
In June the Petrograd Soviet calls for demonstrations to outmaneuver the Bolsheviks; Bolshevik support still remains strong.
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!10
In the July Days Kronstradt sailors supporting the Bolsheviks demonstrate in Petrograd. The demonstrators are fired on and chaos follows.
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!11
In July, Prime Minister Lvov is forced to resign and is replaced by Kerensky (links to the Soviet). The Bolsheviks are held responsible for the bloodshed, their newspapers are closed, and warrants issued for the arrest of their leaders. Lenin and Stalin flee and Trotsky and Kamenev are imprisoned.
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!12
In September General Kornilov tries to move on Petrograd with his troops, under pretext of restoring order. Kerensky appeals to the Bolsheviks for help in defeating Kornilov. Lenin recognizes the opportunity and forms a Red Guard of Bolshevik soldiers and workers, and sets up a Military Revolutionary Committee. Most of Kornilov's troops desert, Kornilov is arrested, and Bolshevik's support increases further.
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!14
Insurrection, led by Trotsky, now begins. All main public buildings are occupied and Kerensky flees. The Bolsheviks assume power and effect a series of radical reforms.
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!15
Insurrection, led by Trotsky, now begins. All main public buildings are occupied and Kerensky flees. The Bolsheviks assume power and effect a series of radical reforms.
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!16
In the October Revolution the Bolsheviks agree to make seizure of power 'the order of the dayÆ. Kerensky mobilizes his troops too late and they are defeated by troops loyal to the Bolsheviks.
