The Russian Revolution Begins (1917)

In 1917, Russia underwent a seismic transformation that dismantled centuries of monarchy and gave rise to the world’s first communist state. The Russian Revolution was driven by deep political unrest, economic despair, and the catastrophic effects of World War I. In this episode of History Deep Dive, we break down the revolution’s two pivotal phases—the February Revolution, which forced Tsar Nicholas II’s abdication, and the October Revolution, which saw Lenin’s Bolsheviks seize control. We’ll explore the key figures, ideological battles, global repercussions, and controversies that continue to spark debate. Was the revolution inevitable? Did Lenin’s rule betray its ideals? And what lessons can we learn today from this momentous uprising? Join us as we dive into one of history’s most defining revolutions.