Beginning of Essay
. “The Soviet socialist experiment has been the great utopian adventure of our century, “ one scholar wrote about the Soviet Union. For more than 70 years, to millions it has meant hope, and to other millions, horror; but for all it has spelled fascination.†....

Middle of Essay
.... an end to the bread shortage. Police officers broke up the march, but a few days later the demonstration grew and became stronger in the process. On March 11, troops were ordered by government officials to end the riots, but instead of restoring order the soldiers stood by or even joined in the chaos. The desertion of the local army caused the government to crumble. Czar Nicholas II resigned office March 15 not only from the enormous popular action but also from his brother, Michael, handing over the power to the “Provisional Government� formed by the Duma two days prior. The provisional government of liberals and temperate socialists succee ....