Chapter 7:Nationalism Triumphs in Europe
Section 5: Russia – Reform and Reaction
The Industrialization of Russia
In the 1890s, Nicholas’ government focused on economic development. It encouraged the building of railroads to connect iron and coal mines with factories and to transport goods across Russia.
Secured foreign capital to invest in industry and transportation systems, such as the Trans-Siberian Railroad, which linked European Russia to the Pacific Ocean.
Effects of Industrialization
Government officials and business leaders applauded economic growth.
Nobles and peasants opposed it, fearing the changes it brought.
Industrialization also created new social ills as peasants flocked to cities to work in factories. Instead of a better life, they found long hours and low pay in dangerous conditions.
Disease and discontent multiplied. Radicals sought supporters among the new industrial workers.
Socialists often handed out pamphlets that preached the revolutionary ideas of Karl Marx.
Finish the incomplete sentences.
1. When Russia lost the war against Japan in 1904, Russian people reacted by…
unleashing pent-up discontent created by years of oppression. Protesters poured into the streets. Workers went on strike, demanding shorter hours and better wages. Liberals called for a constitution and reforms to overhaul the government.
2. On Sunday, January 22, 1905. Marchers flowed through the streets of St. Petersburg toward the tsar’s Winter Palace and brought a petition for justice and freedom. In response, the tsar…
fled the palace and called in soldiers. As the people approached, they saw troops lined up across the square. Suddenly, gunfire rang out. Hundreds of men and women fell dead or wounded in the snow.
3. Bloody Sunday was a turning point for the Russians because…
discontent exploded across Russia. Strikes multiplied. In some cities, workers took over local government. In the countryside, peasants revolted and demanded land. Minority nationalities called for autonomy from Russia.
4. To restore order in Russia, Peter Stolypin used… arrests, pogroms, and executions.
5. To regain peasant support, Stolypin introduced…
moderate land reforms. He strengthened the zemstvos and improved education. Unfortunately, these reforms were too limited to meet the broad needs of most Russians, and dissatisfaction still simmered.
