The Russian Revolution of 1905 | Bloody Sunday and the first Soviets

About this Video

• Video Title: The Russian Revolution of 1905 | Bloody Sunday and the first Soviets
• Channel: House of History
• Speakers: The speaker's name is not explicitly mentioned in the transcript.
• Duration: 00:15:53

Introduction

This video details the 1905 Russian Revolution, focusing on Bloody Sunday—a massacre of peaceful protesters—and the subsequent formation of the first Soviets. It explores the underlying social and political tensions, the various factions involved (workers, liberals, revolutionaries), and the Tsar's responses, culminating in the October Manifesto granting some concessions.

Key Takeaways

• Bloody Sunday (January 22, 1905): A peaceful procession of unarmed civilians, led by Father Gapon, was met with violent suppression by Imperial soldiers, resulting in numerous deaths and sparking widespread unrest.
• Widespread Strikes and Protests: The massacre ignited massive strikes and protests across Russia, involving workers, peasants, and other social groups, significantly impacting the economy and challenging Tsarist authority.
• The Rise of Soviets: As a response to the lack of effective worker organizations, Soviets (councils of workers' deputies) emerged, notably in Saint Petersburg, playing a crucial role in coordinating strikes and representing worker interests. Leon Trotsky became chairman of the Saint Petersburg Soviet.
• The October Manifesto (October 17, 1905): Facing a crippling general strike, Tsar Nicholas II issued the October Manifesto, granting some civil liberties and promising an elected legislative assembly (the Duma). This was a significant concession, though the Duma's power was later limited by the Tsar.
• The Failure of the Moscow Uprising: A Bolshevik-led attempt to overthrow the Tsar in December 1905 failed, resulting in Trotsky's arrest and exile.