Russian Social Democracy was a political movement that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for socialism in Russia. It aimed to address the social and economic inequalities faced by the working class and sought to establish a democratic government that would represent their interests. The movement was influenced by Marxist ideology and emphasized the importance of class struggle. The movement eventually split into two main factions: the Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, who favored a more radical approach, and the Mensheviks, who supported a more gradual transition to socialism. This division played a significant role in the political landscape of early 20th-century Russia, particularly during the Russian Revolution of 1917.