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Class 9 Social Science History Chapter 2 Summary Notes PDF Download
Vedantu’s Note for Class 9 Social Science History (India and the Contemporary World-I) Chapter 2, Students learn about the rise of socialism in Europe and how it led to the Russian Revolution. Socialism started as a response to the problems caused by industrial capitalism, which created inequality and unfair conditions for many people. This chapter covers how socialist ideas grew in popularity, the key figures behind them, and how these ideas led to major changes in Russia. The Russian Revolution of 1917 was a significant event that changed history, and understanding it will help you see how political ideas can shape the world. Vedantu makes it easier for students to see the lessons and ideas in the Class 9 History Notes.
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Students can download Chapter 2 Socialism In Europe and the Russian Revolution Class 9 Notes PDF, making it simple to study and review whenever you need with the updated CBSE Social Science Class 9 Syllabus.
Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution Class 9 Social Science History Chapter 2 CBSE Notes - 2025-26
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FAQs on Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution Class 9 Social Science History Chapter 2 CBSE Notes - 2025-26
1. How can I quickly summarise the main ideas of liberals, radicals, and conservatives for my revision of this chapter?
For a quick recap, remember their core differences regarding societal change in 19th-century Europe.
- Liberals wanted a nation that tolerated all religions, valued individual rights, and favoured a representative government, but they did not support universal adult franchise.
- Radicals supported women's suffrage movements and a government based on the majority of a country's population, opposing the privileges of landowners and factory owners.
- Conservatives initially opposed radical change but, after the French Revolution, accepted that some change was necessary, believing the past should be respected and change should be gradual.
2. What were the key causes of the 1917 Russian Revolution that I should focus on in my notes?
When revising the causes of the Russian Revolution, focus on these four key points:
- Autocratic Rule: Widespread discontent with the inefficient and oppressive rule of Tsar Nicholas II.
- Poor Worker Conditions: Harsh conditions, long working hours, and low wages for industrial workers in cities like St. Petersburg.
- Agrarian Crisis: Peasants' demand for the redistribution of land held by the nobility and the crown.
- Impact of World War I: Severe military losses, food shortages, and economic collapse, which completely discredited the Tsarist government.
3. What is the main difference between the February Revolution and the October Revolution for a quick summary?
The main difference lies in who was overthrown and who took power. The February Revolution (1917) led to the end of the monarchy, with Tsar Nicholas II abdicating and a Provisional Government being formed. The October Revolution (1917) was when the Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, overthrew this Provisional Government and established the world's first socialist state.
4. What was the significance of Lenin's 'April Theses' in the chapter?
The 'April Theses' are a crucial concept for revision as they marked a turning point. Upon his return to Russia in April 1917, Vladimir Lenin presented three key demands:
- The war (WWI) be brought to a close.
- Land be transferred to the peasants.
- Banks be nationalised.
5. How did World War I accelerate the collapse of the Tsarist regime in Russia?
World War I acted as a catalyst for the revolution. For revision, remember these impacts: Russia suffered over 7 million casualties by 1917, leading to a loss of morale. The war effort caused severe food shortages as grain supplies were diverted to the army. Industries shut down due to labour shortages and disrupted supply lines. These combined failures destroyed public support for Tsar Nicholas II and made revolution almost inevitable.
6. What were Stalin's collectivisation policies, and why are they a key concept to revise?
Stalin's collectivisation is a key concept because it shows the transformation of the USSR after Lenin. To deal with grain shortages, Stalin forced all peasants to cultivate in collective farms (kolkhoz) starting in 1929. The policy aimed to modernise agriculture and eliminate the 'kulaks' (well-to-do peasants). It was implemented with force, leading to widespread resistance, destruction of livestock, and a devastating famine from 1930-1933.
7. For my revision, what was the global impact of the Russian Revolution?
The Russian Revolution had a profound global influence, which is a key summary point. It led to the formation of communist parties in many countries, like the Communist Party of Great Britain. The revolution inspired colonial peoples to challenge imperialism. The formation of the USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) created a new world power, setting the stage for the Cold War and giving socialism a global platform.
8. What is the best way to structure my revision for the 'Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution' chapter?
To revise this chapter effectively, structure your notes in three parts:
- The Age of Social Change: Summarise the ideas of Liberals, Radicals, and Conservatives and the coming of Socialism to Europe with figures like Karl Marx.
- The Russian Revolution: Create a timeline covering the 1905 Revolution (Bloody Sunday), the impact of WWI, the February Revolution, and the October Revolution. Note the key players like Lenin and the Bolsheviks.
- The Aftermath: Review the Civil War, the making of the USSR, and Stalin's collectivisation policy, concluding with the global influence of the revolution.
