1905 Russian Revolution Timeline: A Detailed Guide for Teens

Timeline of the 1905 Russian Revolution

The 1905 Russian Revolution was a wave of mass political and social unrest in the Russian Empire that occurred in response to grievances against the autocratic government. Here’s a clear step-by-step timeline of the main events:

January 22, 1905 - Bloody Sunday

• Civilians led by Father Gapon march to the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg to present a petition to Tsar Nicholas II.
• The peaceful protest turns deadly when troops fire on the crowd, killing hundreds. This incident ignites widespread outrage against the tsarist regime.

February - March 1905

• Strikes and protests spread across major cities, with workers demanding better wages and working conditions.
• Various social groups, including students and intellectuals, express dissatisfaction with the government.

April 1905

• Discontent grows in other parts of the empire, including in Poland and Finland, where protests and strikes occur.

June 1905 - Mutiny on the Battleship Potemkin

• Crews aboard the battleship Potemkin revolt against their officers due to poor conditions and food shortages.
• The mutiny becomes famous and symbolizes the broader discontent within the military and society.

October 1905 - The October Manifesto

• Under intense pressure, Tsar Nicholas II issues the October Manifesto, promising civil liberties and the establishment of a Duma (parliament).
• This is seen as a significant concession but is met with mixed reactions, as many radicals are dissatisfied with the lack of reform.

December 1905 - The Moscow Uprising

• A significant uprising breaks out in Moscow as workers and revolutionaries attempt to seize control.
• The government brutally suppresses the uprising, resulting in heavy casualties and further unrest.

1906 - The Aftermath

• The end of the revolution does not restore peace. Although the Duma is established, it has limited power and fails to satisfy revolutionary demands.
• The seeds of further discontent are sown, setting the stage for the more significant Russian Revolution in 1917.

This timeline highlights major events during the 1905 Russian Revolution, a pivotal moment in Russian history which laid the groundwork for future revolutions. Understanding these events can help you grasp the complexity of Russia’s political landscape in the early 20th century.