1 The Bolsheviks were totally opposed to private property Therefore most industries and banks were nationalised. 2 Land was declared social property and peasants were allowed to seize the land of the nobility.

Immediate Changes Brought About by the Bolsheviks after the October Revolution

The October Revolution, led by the Bolsheviks, marked a significant turning point in Russian history. After seizing power, the Bolsheviks implemented a series of immediate changes in various aspects of society, politics, and the economy. These changes aimed to establish a new social order based on Marxist principles and to consolidate their power.

Social Changes:
- Land Reform: The Bolsheviks implemented a radical land reform program, transferring land ownership from the aristocracy and wealthy landowners to the peasants. This measure aimed to address the widespread discontent among the rural population and to fulfill one of the key demands of the revolution.
- Worker Control: The Bolsheviks introduced workers' control over factories and industries. Factory committees were established to allow workers to participate in decision-making processes and to ensure the smooth functioning of production.
- Separation of Church and State: The Bolsheviks declared the separation of church and state, ending the privileged status of the Russian Orthodox Church. Religious institutions lost their property, and religious education was replaced with secular education.

Political Changes:
- Establishment of the Soviet Government: The Bolsheviks established the Soviet government, which was based on the principle of workers' and peasants' councils (soviets). The All-Russian Congress of Soviets became the highest legislative body, and the Council of People's Commissars, led by Lenin, became the executive authority.
- Red Army: The Bolsheviks formed the Red Army as a military force loyal to the Soviet government. This army played a crucial role in defending the revolution and consolidating Bolshevik power during the subsequent Russian Civil War.

Economic Changes:
- Nationalization of Industry: The Bolsheviks nationalized major industries, banks, and transportation networks. Private property was abolished, and the means of production were placed under state control. This move aimed to establish a planned economy and to ensure the equitable distribution of resources.
- Worker Control of Industry: Alongside nationalization, the Bolsheviks implemented a policy of worker control in industrial enterprises. Factory committees were responsible for managing production and ensuring workers' rights.

These immediate changes brought about by the Bolsheviks after the October Revolution had a profound impact on Russian society and set the stage for the establishment of the Soviet Union. The Bolsheviks sought to transform Russia into a socialist state, with the goal of creating a classless society and achieving equality among its citizens. However, these changes also faced significant challenges and opposition, leading to a protracted period of civil unrest and political turmoil.