Background:
- Occurred in August 1917 during the Russian Provisional Government’s rule after the February Revolution.
- Russia was in political turmoil, still fighting in World War I, with deteriorating morale and rising support for radical leftists like the Bolsheviks.
- Alexander Kerensky, head of the Provisional Government, struggled to maintain authority.
- General Lavr Kornilov, appointed Commander-in-Chief by Kerensky, was a conservative officer who wanted to restore order and military discipline.
The Event:
- Kornilov believed Russia needed a strong hand to prevent collapse and pushed for military control over Petrograd.
- In late August, Kornilov moved troops toward Petrograd, allegedly to quell Bolshevik unrest and secure the government.
- Kerensky viewed this as a coup attempt and dismissed Kornilov, ordering his arrest.
- To defend the capital, Kerensky armed workers and relied on Bolshevik militias (e.g., the Red Guards).
Aftermath:
- The coup failed without bloodshed; Kornilov was arrested.
- Kerensky’s credibility was damaged—seen as weak and indecisive.
- The Bolsheviks gained popularity for their role in defending Petrograd.
- The affair discredited conservative forces and paved the way for the Bolshevik October Revolution.