What are the main factors for the Bolshevik's victory in Oct 1917?
The Bolsheviks' victory?
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/RUSnovemberR.htm
... and others:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&as_q=why+bolsheviks+won+1917&as_epq=&as_oq=&as_eq=&num=10&lr=&as_filetype=&ft=i&as_sitesearch=&as_qdr=all&as_rights=&as_occt=any&cr=&as_nlo=&as_nhi=&safe=images
That first link is well done. The war had exacted a great toll on the Army, the economy was in shambles, and the army was in disarray, and angry. The Bolsheviks just happened to be there, and organized.
The main factors for the Bolshevik's victory in October 1917, during the Russian Revolution, can be attributed to several key factors. To understand these factors, we need to delve into the historical context of the Russian Revolution and analyze the events leading up to the Bolshevik's triumph.
1. Leadership and Organization: One crucial factor was the strong leadership and organizational skills of Vladimir Lenin and the Bolshevik Party. Lenin provided clear direction and strategic decision-making. The Bolsheviks had a well-defined ideology and were disciplined in their approach, which helped mobilize their supporters effectively.
2. Popular Support: The Bolsheviks were able to gain support from various segments of society, including workers, soldiers, and peasants. They promised an end to Russia's involvement in World War I, land reform, and an end to food shortages. By appealing to the working class, the Bolsheviks garnered significant support, which boosted their chances of success.
3. Weaknesses of the Provisional Government: The Provisional Government, established after the February Revolution in 1917, was seen as weak and ineffective. It failed to address the urgent concerns of the people, such as ending the war and addressing economic hardships. This created widespread dissatisfaction, which the Bolsheviks were able to exploit to their advantage.
4. Military Support: The Bolsheviks managed to secure the support of key military units, such as the Petrograd Garrison, which played a vital role in the success of the revolution. The military support provided the Bolsheviks with the necessary force to seize control of key strategic positions, including the Winter Palace.
5. Timing and Strategy: The Bolsheviks carefully planned their coup, waiting for the right moment to strike. Taking advantage of the chaos and instability in Russia, they launched their operation during the night of October 24th, 1917 (Julian calendar). They strategically focused their efforts on key areas such as the Winter Palace, where the Provisional Government resided, and other important targets.
6. Political Fragmentation: The political landscape in Russia was highly fragmented, with various competing factions and organizations. This fragmentation weakened the opposition to the Bolsheviks, making it easier for them to consolidate their power.
To analyze these factors and their impact, historians often study primary and secondary sources such as historical accounts, speeches, letters, and official documents from the time period. By examining these sources, historians can develop a comprehensive understanding of the Bolshevik's victory in October 1917.