Recall: key terms and conditions
Use these questions to consolidate the key features of Russia in 1914. Aim to use the correct historical terms in every answer.
Q1. Match each term to its meaning by writing the correct letter beside each number.
1. Autocracy
2. Okhrana
3. Duma
4. Russification
A. The Tsarist secret police
B. Imposing Russian language and culture on subject peoples
C. Rule by a single, unlimited authority
D. The limited elected assembly
Answers: 1 2 3 4
Q2. Name the three pillars that supported the Tsarist autocracy in 1914.
Q3. Approximately what proportion of Russia's population were peasants in 1914?
Answer:
Apply: the four forces
Now apply the "forces" framework. Connect each condition to a consequence — that causal link is what earns analysis marks.
Q4. Complete the "four forces" table for Russia in 1914. For each force, give one condition and explain why it created instability.
| Force | Condition in 1914 | Why it created instability |
|---|---|---|
| Political | ||
| Economic | ||
| Social | ||
| International |
Q5. Explain in 2–3 sentences how rapid industrialisation created a social group that threatened the regime.
Extend: evaluating Tsarist weakness
Bring the lesson together in one extended response. Plan a position before you write.
Q6. "The greatest weakness of the Tsarist system in 1914 was political, not economic or social." To what extent do you agree? Write a structured paragraph that takes a clear position, supports it with specific evidence, and acknowledges at least one alternative view.