The primary cause of the Russian Revolution was a combination of social, economic, and political discontent among the Russian populace. By 1917, widespread dissatisfaction brewed due to the hardships of World War I, including military failures, economic instability, and food shortages. The ruling monarchy, led by Tsar Nicholas II, was perceived as inept and disconnected from the needs of the people. The February Revolution that year led to the abdication of the Tsar and the establishment of a provisional government. This event eventually paved the way for the October Revolution, wherein the Bolsheviks would seize power and establish a communist state.