How did the 1905 Revolution influence Russian politics?

The 1905 Revolution led to significant political changes in Russia, including the creation of the Duma and limited reforms.

The 1905 Revolution was a wave of mass political and social unrest that spread across the Russian Empire. It was triggered by a combination of long-term social and economic issues, as well as immediate events like the Bloody Sunday massacre, where peaceful protesters were shot by the Tsar's troops. This unrest forced Tsar Nicholas II to make concessions to appease the masses and prevent further chaos.

One of the most significant outcomes was the October Manifesto, issued by Tsar Nicholas II in response to the widespread protests and strikes. The manifesto promised the creation of a legislative assembly known as the Duma. This was a major shift because, for the first time, it allowed for some degree of representative government in Russia. However, the Tsar retained significant power, and the Duma's influence was limited.

The revolution also led to the establishment of political parties and greater political engagement among the Russian populace. Before 1905, political activity was largely underground and illegal. The revolution changed this, leading to the formation of various political groups, including the Constitutional Democrats (Kadets), the Socialist Revolutionaries (SRs), and the Social Democrats, who later split into the Bolsheviks and Mensheviks. These parties began to play a more active role in Russian politics, advocating for different visions of Russia's future.

Despite these changes, the reforms were not enough to satisfy many Russians. The Tsar's continued autocratic rule and the limited powers of the Duma led to ongoing dissatisfaction. This unrest set the stage for further revolutionary activity, culminating in the more radical revolutions of 1917, which ultimately led to the fall of the Tsarist regime and the rise of the Soviet Union.