Explain the circumstances surrounding World War I and how these set the stage for the Russian Revolution.

Russia entered the First World War without having fully industrialized and not fully prepared. The Russian army performed terribly in battles with the Central Powers armies, retreating and suffering the worst defeats at the hands of the Germans, losing many men and equipment. Besides, the Russian army had serious logistic problems, which reduced its effectivity and combat readiness. The prolonged war effort caused food shortages, dislocation, and outrage because of the dismal performance in the conflict. Chaos, famine and instability caused a terrible situation than ultimately led to the resignation of the Tsar and later to the Bolshevik Revolution, which allowed the rise of a communist regime in Russia.

"The effects of World War I gave rise to the Russian Revolution. In February and March 1917, a popular revolution forced the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the rise of a provisional government. This government, which kept Russia in the war, was itself overthrown by radical socialists just eight months later."