DEPTH STUDIES: Why is the Provisional Government viewed as the one that was reluctant to carry out reforms?

Question 1

What reforms were carried out by the provisional government?

Answer 1

• Political prisoners were released.
• Secret Courts were ended.
• Freedom of the press was instigated.

Question 2

Evidence that the PG was not responsive to the wants of the people?

Answer 2

• Workers demands for an 8 hour day and peasants demands for land were ignored.
• Continuation of the war led to food shortages, inflation and demonstrations by workers, soldiers and sailors.

Question 3

Argument supporting the PG in their policy for reforms?

Answer 3

• Lack of economic and social programme of reform was understandable given the situation of war.
• Early changes made by the provisional government were not intend to reform but as a principle which would aid major political change.