The First World War placed immense pressure on Russia, exposing deep economic, military, and political weaknesses. By 1916, millions had died or been captured, and the economy was collapsing under the strain of war spending. Food shortages, inflation, and a failing transport system pushed cities to the brink of starvation. In 1915, Tsar Nicholas II took direct command of the military, leaving the unpopular Tsarina and Rasputin to govern. Their mismanagement deepened public anger, setting the stage for the final crisis of autocracy in February/March 1917, when mass protests and military mutinies forced the Tsar to abdicate, ending centuries of Romanov rule.

This engaging PowerPoint presentation gives students a solid foundation in understanding how the First World War led directly to revolution. The slides break down the economic turmoil, military failures, and political instability that led to the collapse of Tsarist Russia. Thought-provoking questions encourage students to analyse the causes of unrest, while a mini-research task allows them to explore key revolutionary triggers, such as inflation, food shortages, and public dissatisfaction with the monarchy.

Teachers will appreciate the time-saving structure of this resource. The slides are designed to present key historical details clearly while sparking discussion. The activities promote independent learning and critical thinking, ensuring that students actively engage with the material rather than just memorising facts.

This lesson is particularly valuable for IBDP History students studying Paper 3: Imperial Russia, Revolution, and the Establishment of the Soviet Union (1855–1924), as well as any students focusing on the impact of war on Russian society and the events leading to the February/March 1917 revolution. The Impact of the First World War on Russia helps students connect wartime struggles with the collapse of autocracy, giving them a strong grasp of this turning point in history.

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