Final answer:
The Bolshevik Revolution, choice D, refers to the Communist overthrow of the Russian government in October 1917, leading to the end of the Provisional Government and the establishment of a Soviet regime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct definition for the Bolshevik Revolution is D. the Communist overthrow of the Russian government. This pivotal event occurred in October 1917 (Julian calendar) and is also known as the October Revolution. The Bolsheviks, a faction of the Marxist Russian Social Democratic Labour Party led by Vladimir Lenin, successfully overthrew the Provisional Government that had replaced the Tsarist regime after the earlier February Revolution.
The Russian Revolution began with the February Revolution leading to Tsar Nicholas II's abdication, then the establishment of a Provisional Government which struggled to maintain power amidst growing dissatisfaction and unrest. The Bolsheviks, promising an end to Russian participation in World War I and appealing to the demands of workers and peasants for land and food, gained significant support. After a period of civil war, the Bolsheviks consolidated power, creating a Soviet government that would lead to the formation of the Soviet Union.
It's important to note that while the Bolshevik Revolution led to the establishment of a communist government, it was initially fraught with challenges. Violence and counter-revolution followed, notably in the form of the Russian Civil War between the Red Army and White forces, the latter being an amalgamation of anti-Bolshevik groups. Despite these challenges, the Bolsheviks (later renamed Communists) maintained power, laying the groundwork for Stalin's rise and the eventual establishment of the USSR.