The Opening of the Second Duma in 1907

Name: The Opening of the Second Duma in 1907
Start: 1868-03-05
Location: Unspecified

Introduction to the Second Duma

The Second Duma opened in St. Petersburg on February 14, 1907, at a time of significant political tension in Russia. Following the 1905 Revolution, the Tsar introduced a series of reforms, yet many Russians were dissatisfied with the slow pace of change and the limited powers granted to the Duma.

Political Climate in Russia

In the years leading to the Duma’s opening, Russia was a country marked by social unrest and demands for reform. The first Duma, which convened in 1906, was dismissed after just a few months by Tsar Nicholas II due to its opposition to his policies. The **Second Duma** aimed to address some of the issues raised but was still met with opposition from conservative factions within the government.

Opposition and Dissent

The political landscape during this period was fraught with tension. Many in the Duma were aligned with revolutionary movements, advocating for a greater voice in government. This growing opposition culminated in a noticeable increase in activity and protests, alarming Tsarist officials.

Demonstrations and Military Response

As the Second Duma began its sessions, a wave of discontent led to massive demonstrations throughout the city. On the same day as the Duma's opening, approximately 40,000 demonstrators gathered outside, calling for political change and voicing their discontent with the Tsar's regime. The Russian troops were called in to disperse the crowds, leading to clashes between the military and the demonstrators.

Army Response to the Protests

Faced with the large crowds, the Russian military reacted swiftly, using force to clear the streets and restore order. This brutal suppression of protests highlighted the growing rift between the government and the populace, as many were determined to fight for their rights and demands. The violent dispersal of demonstrators was emblematic of the larger societal struggles that would continue to unfold in the years leading to the Russian Revolution.

Consequences of the Opening

The disturbances surrounding the Second Duma's opening were significant, as they reflected the underlying issues in Russian society. The government's inability to address the populace's demands led to escalating tensions, setting the stage for future conflicts. The Second Duma would exist under a cloud of distrust between its members and the Tsar's government, ultimately leading to its dissolution in 1907 after just over three months.

Fun Fact

Intriguing Insight on the 1907 Events

Despite its short existence, the Second Duma was notable for the considerable number of revolutionary politicians it hosted, many of whom would later play crucial roles in the October Revolution of 1917.