Russian Revolution of 1905

Russian Ruler Tsar Nicholas II was an autocratic ruler who enjoyed absolute power. So people of Russia were not happy as their voice had no existence. The opinion of the common people didn't matter and there was no parliament for debates and discussion. Tsar had to take the final decisions.

Early 20th century was a time when the role of Liberals also became significant. Liberals demanded political change in Russia and aspired to establish a constitutional and parliamentary system in the country.

At the same time, year 1904 made the survival of Russian workers difficult as prices of essential goods increased. The angry workers started making their associations. These workers' associations came into action when four members of the Assembly of Russian Workers were dismissed at the Putilov Iron Works. Over the next few days over 1 lakh workers at St. Petersburg went on strike, demanding:

• reducting in the working day to 8 hours
• increase in wages
• improvement in working conditions

Soon, in January 1905 Father Gapon led a procession of workers. They reached the Winter Palace of Tsar Nicholas II. But their voice was not considered important and the workers were attacked by the police. Over 100 workers were killed and about 300 wounded. The incident is popularly known as Bloody Sunday.

Looking at the widespread anger, Tsar Nicholas II allowed the creation of a Parliament which was termed as DUMA. But soon after the 1905 revolution, the committees and unions were declared illegal. Strict restrictions were placed on political actions and protest activities. Even the 1st Duma was dismissed by the Tsar within 75 days and 2nd Duma was dismissed within 3 months. The ruler did not want anyone to question him or reduce his power or position.

Not only this, when the 3rd Duma was formed in 1907, Tsar Nicholas II kept the revolutionaries out of it. The Duma was packed with conservative politicians and followers of Tsar. 

With this the Revolution of 1905 came to an end, but the workers, peasants and common people of Russia were getting prepared for a big revolution, i.e. The Russian Revolution of 1917.

For a video on the Russian Revolution of 1905, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lBiCYF8-7g&t=17s