The Bolsheviks Take Power and Create a One-Party State (1917–1918) - 8

Question 1

When did the Bolsheviks seize power from the Provisional Government?

Answer 1

On the evening of 25 October 1917 in St. Petersburg.

Question 2

What key event symbolized the Bolsheviks taking power?

Answer 2

The storming of the Winter Palace, where government ministers were located.

Question 3

How does the painting of the Winter Palace storming portray the Bolsheviks?

Answer 3

As heroes, although in reality the event was less dramatic and met little resistance.

Question 4

Why was the October Revolution not as heroic as often portrayed?

Answer 4

Most of the Provisional Government had little support, and even soldiers didn’t resist much. Many key weapons failed.

Question 5

Did the Bolsheviks face opposition after taking power?

Answer 5

Yes, many people opposed the new regime and Lenin sought to eliminate all opposition.

Question 6

What steps did the Bolsheviks take to destroy opposition?
A:

Answer 6

Shut down opposition newspapers

Arrested editors

Created the Cheka (secret police) to torture and execute enemies

Question 7

What happened to the planned elections for the Constituent Assembly?

Answer 7

Elections went ahead, but the Bolsheviks did poorly. Lenin then used force to close the Assembly in January 1918.

Question 8

What type of government did Lenin establish?

Answer 8

A one-party state, where only the Bolsheviks were allowed to rule.