History of the Russian Revolution facts for kids
First edition
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| Author | Leon Trotsky |
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| Original title | История русской революции |
| Translator | Max Eastman |
| Language | Russian |
| Genre | History |
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Publication date
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1930 |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover, Paperback) |
| Pages | 1040 |
| ISBN | 0-913460-83-4 |
History of the Russian Revolution is a famous three-volume book written by Leon Trotsky. It tells the story of the Russian Revolution of 1917. This revolution changed Russia a lot. The first part of the book explains the February Revolution and the October Revolution. It shows how these two big events were connected.
The book was first published in Germany in 1930. It was written in Russian. Later, Max Eastman translated it into English in 1932. In the Soviet Union, this book was not allowed because it was seen as going against Joseph Stalin. It was only published in Russia in 1997.
Contents
Writing the Book
Leon Trotsky was a very important leader in the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia. This revolution happened in October 1917. Later, Trotsky disagreed with Joseph Stalin and had to leave the Soviet Union. In January 1929, he was sent away from the country.
While he was living in Turkey, Trotsky wrote this book. He wrote it on an island called Prinkipo.
The History of the Russian Revolution shares the story of the February Revolution and October Revolution in Russia. Both of these big events happened in 1917. This book is special because it's a history of a major event written by someone who was actually there. Trotsky wrote about himself in the third person. This means he talked about "Trotsky" instead of "I." He did this to make sure the book felt like a history, not just his personal memories. People think it's a very important and unique book because of this.
The book is split into three main parts:
- Volume I: The Overthrow of Tzarism
- Volume II: The Attempted Counter-Revolution
- Volume III: The Triumph of the Soviets
Volume 1: Overthrowing the Tsar
This part of the book is about the February Revolution. This is when the old ruler, the Tsar, was removed from power. It also talks about the Provisional Government. This was the new government that tried to rule Russia after the Tsar left.
The first volume explains why the new democratic government that took over from the Tsar didn't last very long.
Volume 2: Trying to Stop the Revolution
This part covers the time from the July Days up to September. During this period, different groups tried to stop the revolution or change its direction. It talks about the last attempts of the Provisional Government to stay in power.
Volume 3: The Soviets Win
The third volume discusses important topics like national identity. It also explains how the October Revolution was planned. Finally, it describes the October uprising itself, when the Soviets took control.
Why the Book Was Written
Trotsky wrote this book for a few main reasons. He wanted to share what he learned from the revolution. He hoped it would be a way to teach others and help future revolutions.
Many experts believe this book is one of Trotsky's most important works. They say it shows his ideas about revolution very clearly. Trotsky himself said that a history book should not only tell what happened but also explain why it happened that way.
People who have read the book say it's a powerful and well-written story. They note that it's special because it comes from someone who played a big part in the revolution. Even today, many historians consider it one of the best accounts of the 1917 events.
See also
- Bibliography of the Russian Revolution and Civil War
- Leon Trotsky bibliography
