The leader of the Russian Revolution in 1917 who established a communist government was Vladimir Lenin. As the leader of the Bolshevik Party, Lenin played a crucial role in overthrowing the Provisional Government during the October Revolution. He advocated for "Peace, Land, and Bread," which appealed to war-weary soldiers, peasants, and workers disillusioned by ongoing instability. After seizing power, Lenin's government implemented drastic changes, including land redistribution and nationalization of industry, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Soviet Union and a one-party state based on communist principles.