• the straightforward sensational news of the Revolution and abdication
• differing reactions to the Tsar's fall
• concerned speculation about what the events meant for the war effort, and for Russia.

The programme refers to the Russian information blackouts of 1917, showing how news can take the form of speculation; much of the reporting turned out to be based on vague hopes rather than facts. When the news broke, the headlines were interestingly neutral. Perhaps at this early stage the papers were unsure of their position or their sympathies.

This section not only charts the fickleness of the press but also reveals how opinion in Britain was divided during the Great War. Opinions range from sympathy for the Tsar to an attitude of 'it served him right'. The provenance of these opinions, from right across the political spectrum, is significant.

This section reveals how in the press coverage hope and speculation often took precedence over fact. The press also continues to reflect the divisions within society. The more conservative newspapers express the hope that Russia will continue to participate in the war as strongly as ever, but the basis for their optimism is difficult to see. The left-wing newspapers probably carry a more accurate assessment of the situation in Russia. Indeed, contrary to the predictions of the moderate Globe, the 'Extremists' did take over with the Bolshevik Revolution in November 1917. (Note: the Russians still used the Gregorian calendar at this time, so for them it was the 'October Revolution'.)