The main cause of the Russian Revolution of 1917 was widespread discontent with the existing autocratic regime and the dire socio-economic conditions affecting the Russian populace. Factors included severe food shortages, military failures during World War I, and the oppressive rule of Tsar Nicholas II. The situation was exacerbated by rising inflation and labor strikes, which caused unrest among workers and peasants. The February Revolution led to the abdication of the Tsar and the establishment of a provisional government. Later, the Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, capitalized on ongoing discontent to seize power in the October Revolution, radically transforming Russian society and governance.