End Internal state of Russia precarious. Tsar politically isolated and universally unpopular. 1917 Beginning Bolsheviks, under Lenin's leadership, cultivate feelings of discontent and organize strikes. On March 8, government of Tsar Nicholas II introduces bread and flour rationing in Petrograd.
Mass strike begins.
On third day of protest police begin firing on striking workers. The Petrograd Soviet of workers and the Duma for a 'Provisional Committee', later to become a 'Provisional Government'. Tsar Nicholas II abdicates. Mar-May Conflict in the dual power begins to emerge. April Lenin returns from exile in Switzerland.