Russian army destroyed crops and buildings to prevent the enemy from being able to live off the land. ... Large supplies of grain were sent to feed the army. For the people in the cities, bread and flour became scarce.

Conditions in Russia during the First World War

Introduction
During the First World War, Russia faced various challenging conditions that had a significant impact on its society, economy, and political stability. These conditions ultimately contributed to the downfall of the Russian Empire and the rise of the Bolshevik Revolution.

1. War Effort and Mobilization
- Russia's involvement in the war put a significant strain on its resources, manpower, and infrastructure.
- The government initiated a massive mobilization effort to recruit soldiers, which led to a shortage of labor in vital industries such as agriculture and manufacturing.
- As a result, food production and distribution were severely disrupted, leading to shortages and skyrocketing prices.

2. Economic Crisis
- The war caused an economic crisis in Russia, characterized by inflation, scarcity of goods, and a declining standard of living for the population.
- The government resorted to printing more money to finance the war, further exacerbating inflation.
- The disruption of trade routes and the diversion of resources to the war effort hindered industrial production, causing widespread unemployment and economic instability.

3. Social Unrest and Strikes
- The dire conditions during the war fueled social unrest and discontent among the Russian population.
- Workers went on strike demanding better wages, improved working conditions, and an end to the war.
- Protests and demonstrations organized by various political groups, including the Bolsheviks, gained momentum.

4. Military Failures
- Russia faced a series of military failures on the Eastern Front, including the loss of significant territories to German and Austro-Hungarian forces.
- These defeats further demoralized the Russian army and eroded public support for the government.
- Soldiers faced harsh conditions on the frontlines, including inadequate supplies, poor leadership, and high casualties.

5. Tsar Nicholas II's Leadership
- Tsar Nicholas II's leadership during the war was marred by incompetence, indecisiveness, and a lack of understanding of the needs of the Russian people.
- He took personal command of the army, leaving the capital Petrograd vulnerable to political unrest and demonstrations.
- The tsar's absence and ineffective governance further undermined the stability of the Russian Empire.

Conclusion
The conditions in Russia during the First World War were characterized by economic crisis, social unrest, military failures, and a lack of effective leadership. These conditions laid the groundwork for the eventual collapse of the Russian Empire and the subsequent Bolshevik Revolution. The war highlighted the deep-seated issues within Russian society and contributed to the rise of revolutionary sentiments that would reshape the country's future.