There were many causes of the Bolshevik Revolution Essay Example

the gallows as Stolypin's necktie.

After being banished from St. Petersburg by Stolypin, Rasputin's influence increased upon the latter's assassination in 1912, much to the Tsarina's annoyance. An incident took place in the same year when Alexis fell ill, and even though Rasputin was not present in St. Petersburg, he sent a telegram predicting Alexis' recovery on the following day, which came true. In 1915, the Tsar made a catastrophic error by taking charge of the Russian army, which resulted in damaging his reputation as all defeats were attributed to him. As a consequence, he left Alexandra in charge of Russia.

The Russians had suspicions that Alexandra, due to her German heritage, was a spy for Germany which resulted in distrust towards her. Additionally, Rasputin's ideas and relationship with the Tsarina fueled rumors among the revolutionaries that he engaged in an affair with Alexandra and her daughters. However, there is limited evidence to support these claims as any presented evidence may have been tampered with or taken out of context by the revolutionaries. Conversely, there is significant proof of Alexandra's love for her husband. Despite media outlets portraying Rasputin as a ladies' man, innocent sources such as Source 4 on page 28 of Russia ; USSR 1905-1941 only attribute "A photograph of Rasputin surrounded by 'ladies of the aristocracy'."

Indicating that Rasputin had an aristocratic harem, the media censured the Tsar's handling of the war, spreading gossip about the Tsarina's espionage and the rapport between Alexandra and Rasputin.

Despite other issues faced by Russia, the negative impact of propaganda on the Tsar's reputation was significant. The relationship between Alexandra and Rasputin was just one of these problems.

Under Nicholas' leadership, the army's failures were attributed to him as he personally took on the responsibility. The ruling of the country was discredited by the Tsarina who dismissed the old Duma and placed Rasputin's friends or those who would obey him in ministerial roles. Rasputin had significant influence over promotions and dismissals. Consequently, there was no permanent government, resulting in disorganized hiring and firing practices.

During the winter of 1916, the railway system had failed causing food shortages and stranded supplies. There was a lack of coordination for fuel and other necessities, resulting in rotting food in sidings. Due to icy conditions on the railway, Petrograd had limited access to fuel and food, causing price increases while wages remained unchanged. The country was also struggling in the war, which further added to the public's lack of confidence in the leadership.

There are no historical sources available to give a clear explanation of how Rasputin made Alexis better. However, some believe that he had hypnotic powers. Stolypin, who hated him, even admitted that "the man possessed great hypnotic power" (Source 3, Page 27, Russia & THE USSR 1905-1941). When the Tsar heard the rumours about Rasputin, he had a conflict with the Duma and censored all articles about him. This only caused more rumours about their relationship and increased problems for Nicholas II. Therefore, it was not just Rasputin's presence in the court that caused problems, but also Nicholas' reaction to the rumours that led to a lack of respect and fuelled dissatisfaction for his rule.

Despite being a holy man from Siberia, Rasputin's involvement in Russian politics caused difficulties for Tsar Nicholas II due to his lack

of respect and low social status. This ultimately frustrated government ministers who resented his rapid rise to power and influence over important decisions. Although Rasputin's alleged ability to extend the life of Alexis was seen as helpful, his association with the Tsarina only added to Nicholas' problems. Rumours and anti-Tsarist propaganda originated from this relationship, but Nicholas' reaction only exacerbated the issues caused by the rumours.

Even before Rasputin's intervention, Russia was beset by numerous issues, as evidenced by the 1905 revolution. Following the Russo-Japanese War and Bloody Sunday, coupled with countrywide famine and poor living conditions for urban laborers, unrest and discontent were bound to persist in Russia regardless of Rasputin's role.