This course offers an introduction to the Russian Revolution, how and why it happened, who were the major leaders of the revolution, and what were the effects of the revolution within Russia and other countries. This class will look at the Revolution in the context of the First World War, the Industrial Revolution, and examine the basic ideas of Communism. Individuals such as Tzar Nicholas II, Vladimir Lenin, Karl Marx, and Joseph Stalin will be examined, and how they shaped the revolution. 

This class is lecture based with a powerpoint accompanying the lecture. Images in the powerpoint may include period photographs, book covers, newspaper articles, maps, statistical information such as graphs, or period video footage of events discussed. Outside of the lecture, the instructor will initiate and facilitate student discussion of the main themes and topics examined in class in a forum setting. Students will engage with one another and the instructor through these discussions. Additionally, the instructor will recommend and provide access to referenced or additional reading, films, or documentaries for students to view, and provide study games through Kahoot. 

Previous knowledge of the time period or political philosophy is not required. However, a basic understanding of world history, especially 20th century history, is encouraged. Students are encouraged to reach out with any questions or comments.  

The course schedule is as follows: 
Class 01: The Industrial Revolution and the Outbreak of World War I: 
This class examines the impact of the Industrial Revolution, and the birth of new political philosophies. We will examine Karl Marx, and the Communist ideology, the growth of cities and technologies, and the outbreak of World War I. 

Class 02: Imperial Russia: 
This class examines the Royal Family in Russia, Tzar Nicholas II, his wife Alexandra, and their children. It examines the political structure of the Russian Duma, and key figures in the Russian court such as Rasputin. It also examines Russia's role in the war, and the struggles faced by the empire setting up for the outbreak of Revolution. 

Class 03: The Revolution Part I
This class examines the leaders of the Russian Revolution such as Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky, and Joseph Stalin. It  examines their political careers and how they were able to begin the revolution. It will also examine the toll of war on Russian society and the imperial family, and the events that led to the revolution's breaking point. 

Class 04: The Revolution Part II
This final class examines Russia's role as World War I came to an end, and the beginning of the Russian Civil War. It examines the unfolding of the revolution, how it impacted Russian society, and how it was received by other countries and communist parties world wide.