Ep. 2 | Russian Revolution | Collapse of an Empire and the Rise of Bolshevik Power | Daniel Wrinn

Alternative Military History Podcast

What if the collapse of an empire could teach us about the power of ideological battles and human resilience? This episode promises to unravel the chaotic events of 1917, where the Russian Empire crumbled, and a revolutionary wave reshaped the course of history. Join us as we navigate the severe hardships faced by the Russian people, the dramatic fall of Tsar Nicholas II, and Lenin's determined return to Russia, marking the Bolsheviks' ascendancy in Petrograd. The narrative paints a vivid picture of widespread discontent, massive protests, and the refusal of Russian troops to quash the uprising—a prelude to a fierce and transformative civil strife.
Experience the dynamics of the Russian Civil War, where factions like the Reds, Whites, Greens, and Anarchists vied for control amid post-revolutionary turmoil. We explore how strategic challenges and power struggles unfolded, with figures such as Admiral Kolchak and General Denikin leading the White forces against the initially disorganized Bolsheviks. The episode also spotlights the involvement of foreign powers, including the Allies, who became entangled in this conflict. Through these accounts, we uncover the critical decisions and internal struggles that solidified Bolshevik power and changed the geopolitical landscape forever.
Finally, we reflect on the enduring legacy of this tumultuous period, from the brutal measures taken by the Bolsheviks to suppress opposition to the staggering human cost of the conflict. See how the decline of the White Army and their failed offensives paved the way for the establishment of a centralized communist state under Lenin's leadership. As we conclude, consider the long-term consequences of these events, including the rise of Joseph Stalin and the seeds of the Cold War. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Russian Revolution and Civil War—an era that not only shaped the Soviet Union but also left an indelible mark on global history.

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Kapitel

1. Russian Revolution and Civil War Overview (00:00:00)

2. The Russian Civil War Begins (00:12:06)

3. Foreign Intervention in Russian Civil War (00:22:25)

4. White Army's Failed Offensives in Russia (00:34:04)

5. White Army Retreats From Reds (00:43:24)

6. Roots of White Army Defeat (00:55:31)

7. Centralized Control in Russian Civil War (01:04:33)