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Russia Exits World War I — Reading Comprehension

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This comprehensive world history reading passage explores the Russian Revolution and how Russia exited World War I. Students will examine the causes and major events of the Russian Revolution, including the fall of the Romanov dynasty and the rise of the Bolsheviks, as well as the signing of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. The passage uses primary sources, analyzes cause and effect, and connects to geography and social changes. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, explanatory writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a detailed timeline. Spanish translations and a simplified version are provided for accessibility. This resource is aligned with HSS 10.5.1 and RH.6-8.1, supporting both history and ELA standards. A read aloud audio option is available for enhanced comprehension.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Russian Soldiers on fountain Havis Amanda during Russian Revolution — "Russian Soldiers during Russian Revolution"/ Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The Russian Revolution began in 1917, transforming the government and society of Russia. As World War I strained the Russian Empire, unrest grew among workers, peasants, and soldiers. Many Russians were suffering from hunger, poverty, and the loss of millions of lives in the war. The revolution brought dramatic change to Russia, ending centuries of rule by the Tsar and leading to the creation of a communist state led by the Bolsheviks.

One of the main causes of the revolution was the hardship caused by World War I. By 1917, Russian soldiers faced poor conditions and heavy losses on the Eastern Front. The government, led by Tsar Nicholas II, was unable to provide enough food or supplies. In February 1917, protests broke out in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg) over food shortages and government failures. The Tsar abdicated, ending the Romanov dynasty that had ruled Russia for over 300 years. The new provisional government tried to continue the war, but it remained unpopular.

In October 1917, the Bolsheviks, a revolutionary group led by Vladimir Lenin, seized power in Petrograd. They promised "peace, land, and bread" to the people. The Bolsheviks took over government buildings and arrested leaders of the provisional government. They issued the Decree on Peace, calling for Russia to exit World War I. Soon after, they faced fierce opposition from other political groups and foreign powers, leading to a civil war within Russia.

The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was signed in March 1918 between Russia and Germany. This treaty officially ended Russia's involvement in World War I. Russia gave up large territories, including parts of Ukraine, Poland, and the Baltic states. This decision was controversial and caused hardship for many Russians, but it allowed the Bolsheviks to focus on solidifying their control at home. According to the diary of a Russian soldier in 1918, "The war is over for us, but the struggle in our own land has just begun." The revolution and treaty changed the political and social structure of Russia forever.

The Russian Revolution had a major impact on world history. It inspired other revolutionary movements and led to the creation of the Soviet Union. The exit from World War I weakened the Allied Powers but allowed the Bolsheviks to establish a communist regime. The events in Russia showed how war, hardship, and social divisions could lead to dramatic change.

This topic connects to broader themes of revolution, government change, and the influence of war on society.

Interesting Fact: After the revolution, the Russian royal family was moved to Siberia and eventually executed, marking the end of the Romanov dynasty.

Who led the Bolsheviks?

Vladimir LeninTsar Nicholas IIJoseph StalinLeon Trotsky

What treaty ended Russia's WWI involvement?

Treaty of VersaillesTreaty of Brest-LitovskTreaty of ParisTreaty of Tordesillas

Which city was called Petrograd in 1917?

MoscowSt. PetersburgKievOdessa

Why did Russians protest in 1917?

Food shortagesToo much landHigh taxesReligious reasons

What was the promise of the Bolsheviks?

"Peace, land, and bread""Victory and riches""More war""No change"

What happened after the Tsar abdicated?

Provisional government formedCivil war started immediatelyPeace with GermanyBolsheviks took power