They were radicals who rejected cooperation with the bourgeoisie
In the early 20th century, Russia was still under the Old Regime
They were moderates and favoured a liberal regimen that would make a gradual transition to socialism
Economic crisis led to angry rioting, and eventualy the Revolution of 1905
Workers and peasants met in popular assamblies or councils (soviets)
Although there was a Duma, this had very limited powers. Political freedom and individual rights were not recognised
Officially, serfdom had been abolished, but the relations between the nobility and the peasants on their states were still feudal in character. Tools were very rudimentary and propductivity was very low
The tsar made a few concessions. This seemed likely to turn Russia into a parliamentary monarchy.
Clandestine political parties
