Introduction

Russia's involvement in the First World War played a significant role in contributing to the fall of Russian autocracy and the revolution of 1917. The war put immense strain on the Russian economy, society, and military, exacerbating existing problems and laying the groundwork for revolutionary sentiments to take hold. The following sections outline the key ways in which Russia's participation in the war led to the downfall of the autocracy and the subsequent revolution.

1. Economic Strain
- Russia's economy was ill-equipped to handle the demands of a modern war. It lacked industrialization and relied heavily on agriculture.
- The war effort resulted in a massive strain on resources, leading to shortages of food, fuel, and other essential supplies.
- Inflation skyrocketed, causing a sharp decline in the standard of living for ordinary Russians.

2. Military Defeats and Losses
- The Russian army faced numerous military defeats and suffered heavy casualties, leading to disillusionment and loss of faith in the autocracy's ability to protect the nation.
- Incompetence, corruption, and inadequate supply chains plagued the Russian military, further eroding confidence in the government's ability to lead.

3. Social Unrest
- The war intensified existing social tensions in Russia. Soldiers faced harsh conditions, lack of pay, and poor treatment, leading to desertions and mutinies.
- The burden of the war fell heavily on the working class and peasants, exacerbating their discontent and fueling revolutionary sentiment.
- The government's failure to address social and economic grievances created an environment ripe for revolutionary ideas to take hold.

4. Political Instability
- As the war dragged on, opposition to the autocracy grew. Political parties, such as the Bolsheviks, gained support by promising an end to the war and improved conditions for the people.
- The autocracy's decision to maintain its involvement in the war despite mounting losses and discontent further alienated the population and weakened the government's legitimacy.

5. Role of Rasputin and Tsarina Alexandra
- Rasputin, a controversial mystic and advisor to Tsarina Alexandra, wielded significant influence over the government. His perceived corruption and manipulation added to the growing dissatisfaction with the autocracy.
- The tsarina's German heritage and close association with Rasputin made her a target of suspicion, further damaging the monarchy's reputation.

Conclusion
Russia's involvement in the First World War placed immense strain on the country, both economically and socially. The autocracy's inability to address these challenges effectively, coupled with military defeats and political instability, created the conditions necessary for the revolution of 1917. The war proved to be the catalyst that exposed the weaknesses of the autocratic regime and paved the way for the rise of revolutionary forces in Russia.