why did the russian army disintegrate? a) the german invasion of 1916 killed several key commanders in the russian army b) in a desperate attempt to stave off the bolshevik revolution, czar nicholas ii abolished all military conscription c) the russian revolution distracted military leaders from the war with germany d) the russian army never disintegrated
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Correct Answer: c) The Russian Revolution distracted military leaders from the war with Germany
Explanation:
The disintegration of the Russian army during World War I was primarily due to the turmoil caused by the Russian Revolution of 1917. The revolution, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the czarist regime, had a profound impact on the army and its ability to function effectively.
1. Internal Political Upheaval
The Russian Revolution, which unfolded in two stages (the February and October revolutions), created political chaos. The February Revolution led to the abdication of Czar Nicholas II and the establishment of a Provisional Government. However, this government was unstable and faced opposition from various factions, including the Bolsheviks. The October Revolution brought the Bolsheviks to power, further destabilizing the nation. Military leaders, instead of focusing on the war with Germany, were embroiled in addressing these political upheavals.
2. Loss of Morale
Russian soldiers, many of whom were peasants, faced severe hardships, including inadequate supplies, poor leadership, and massive casualties. Revolutionary ideas, such as the Bolsheviks’ call for “peace, land, and bread,” resonated with these disillusioned soldiers. Many abandoned their posts to join revolutionary movements or return home to participate in land seizures.
3. Disintegration of Command
The Provisional Government’s decision to continue the war after the February Revolution was deeply unpopular. Bolshevik propaganda encouraged soldiers to refuse orders and leave the front lines. This led to a breakdown in military discipline and command structures, rendering the army ineffective.
4. Treaty of Brest-Litovsk
After the Bolsheviks took power, they signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk in March 1918, ending Russia’s involvement in the war. This formalized the army’s collapse as a fighting force against Germany.
In conclusion, the Russian army disintegrated because revolutionary fervor and political instability overshadowed its ability to wage war, marking a significant shift in Russian and global history.