’Clouds Gathering on the Horizon’: The Russian Army and the Preparation of the Imperial Population for War, 1906–1914

After the Revolution of 1905 and defeat in the Russo-Japanese War, the Russian government rebuilt its military power by modernizing weaponry, reforming mobilization plans, and expanding the standing force. As part of this effort, the Imperial Army also sought to improve the human material that was the foundation of Russia’s strength. Between 1906 and 1914, army officers introduced initiatives to prepare the population for military service. Through physical education and political lessons in the empire’s schools, as well as anniversary celebrations that glorified Russia’s past, the army hoped to create a population that would assure victory in the next war.