What event on February 22, 1917, led to a major upheaval in Russia?

On February 22, 1917, a significant strike occurred at the Putilov factory in Petrograd, which played a crucial role in sparking the February Revolution. This factory was one of the largest in the city and was emblematic of the growing discontent among workers. The strike was initially about economic grievances, including poor working conditions and insufficient wages, but it quickly escalated into a broader demonstration against the Tsarist regime.

As thousands of workers joined the strike, it coincided with International Women's Day protests on February 23, which further galvanized public discontent. The scale and intensity of these strikes and protests demonstrated the widespread disillusionment with the Tsarist government, ultimately leading to significant political upheaval and the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II in March 1917. The events at the Putilov factory and the subsequent protests were critical in mobilizing the masses and signaling the beginning of a pivotal moment in Russian history.