The Russian Civil War began in 1918 after the 1917 revolution, ending in early 1921 with a communist victory led by the Bolsheviks. The conflict involved the Reds and Whites, with the murder of Tsar Nicholas II and his family in 1918 marking a significant event in the war's narrative.

The chapter provides an introduction to the Russian Civil War, discussing its causes, the strengths and weaknesses of the opposing sides, and the murder of Tsar Nicholas II and his family in July 1918. It highlights the conflict between the Reds and the Whites, with the Bolsheviks ultimately emerging victorious in early 1921.

The Bolsheviks' seizure of power during the Russian Revolution faced opposition from political opponents who were not willing to accept their absolute authority. Lenin believed that conflict would strengthen the communist state, despite facing resistance and having enemies due to their extreme political ideology.

At the beginning of the Russian Civil War, the Reds faced an uphill battle as they controlled only a fifth of Russia. However, their control over densely populated and industrialized areas provided recruitment advantages and access to railroads, giving them an edge over the Whites.