During which period did the Provisional Government operate in Russia?

The Provisional Government in Russia operated from February 1917 to October 1917, following the February Revolution which led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. Initially, it emerged as a temporary authority to govern the country until a Constituent Assembly could be convened. This period was marked by significant political upheaval and social unrest.

The Provisional Government faced numerous challenges, including the decision to continue participation in World War I, which was increasingly unpopular. It struggled to address the pressing issues of land reform and workers' rights, which fueled dissatisfaction among the population and ultimately contributed to its loss of support. By October 1917, the Bolsheviks, capitalizing on the discontent with the Provisional Government, executed a successful takeover, leading to its downfall. This timeframe is crucial in understanding the transition from a more liberal form of government to Bolshevik control, setting the stage for future developments in Russian history.