How does the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk show the practicality of Bolshevik policy?

Correct answer: Leaving the war remained a priority even after accepting harsh terms

The governing historical concept is the Bolsheviks’ prioritisation of peace and political survival over immediate territorial advantage. Their government had promised to end Russia’s participation in the First World War, but the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk required acceptance of severe terms and the loss of large territories. By signing it, the Bolsheviks fulfilled the urgent peace demand and gained time to consolidate power, even though the decision was costly and unpopular. Option A is correct because it captures this practical compromise between a major objective and a painful concession. B is opposite to the revolutionary programme, C mistakes a temporary treaty for surrender to a permanent foreign government, and D contradicts the decision to withdraw from the war.