3. Lesson 4.2.2 World War I

Please watch the following video explain World War I

Crash Course World History

World War I was a costly war for the tsarist dynasty both in resources and lives lost. Russian industry was not able to supply enough equipment to the army. The army generals were incompetent, especially after Nicholas II assumed command. Many soldiers deserted because they did not have enough ammunition, food, or clothing.

While Nicholas was busy with military issues on the Russian front, Tsarina Alexandra (Nicholas' wife) was left in control of the government in St. Petersburg. It was a costly mistake. Nicholas was far away from the centre of power, and his wife was not liked by the Russian people. Rasputin, a religious madman, had convinced Nicholas' wife that only he could save her sick son, Alexis, heir to Nicholas' throne. Gradually, Alexandra let Rasputin take control of the government, and he made many ill-conceived decisions. Thus, the Russian government was in chaos while the real leader, Nicholas II, was far away.

Unfortunately for Nicholas II, Russia was ready for a revolutionary change.