Two Chief Characteristics of Russian Society before 1917:

Economic Inequality:
- The Russian society before 1917 was characterized by significant economic inequality. The majority of the population, particularly peasants and workers, lived in dire poverty, while a small elite enjoyed immense wealth and privilege.
- The majority of the population were peasants who were tied to the land and subject to feudal-like conditions. They often faced harsh living conditions, low wages, and heavy taxation. Many were trapped in a cycle of poverty and indebtedness.
- The industrial working class also faced difficult conditions, with long hours, low wages, and poor working conditions. They were often subjected to exploitation by factory owners, and their living conditions were overcrowded and unsanitary.
- Meanwhile, the nobility and the bourgeoisie, which constituted a small percentage of the population, controlled the vast majority of the wealth and resources in the country. They lived in luxury and enjoyed privileges such as access to education, political power, and land ownership.

Political Repression:
- The Russian society before 1917 was characterized by political repression and limited civil liberties. The autocratic rule of the tsars allowed for little political freedom and suppressed dissent.
- The tsarist regime maintained a strict control over the media, education, and political organizations. Censorship was widespread, and any form of criticism or opposition to the government was met with harsh punishment.
- Political parties and unions were heavily restricted, and their activities were closely monitored. Dissidents and activists were often subjected to imprisonment, exile, or even execution.
- The lack of political freedoms and the absence of a representative government led to a widespread sense of frustration and resentment among the population. People were unable to voice their grievances or participate in the decision-making process, leading to a growing dissatisfaction with the autocratic regime.

Overall, the Russian society before 1917 was characterized by economic inequality and political repression. The majority of the population lived in poverty and faced limited opportunities, while a small elite enjoyed wealth and privilege. Political dissent was suppressed, and civil liberties were severely restricted. These conditions laid the groundwork for the social and political unrest that eventually led to the Russian Revolution in 1917.