Nicholas II was the last emperor of Russia, reigning from 1894 until his forced abdication in 1917. His rule, marked by a staunch commitment to autocracy and a series of catastrophic political and military decisions, was ultimately defined by the collapse of the 300-year-old Romanov dynasty and the rise of the Bolsheviks.
Alexander III’s rule: He came to power after his father was assassinated in 1881. He believed reforms were dangerous and ruled harshly, focusing on keeping absolute power.
Repression under Alexander III: He increased censorship, used the secret police (Okhrana) to crush radicals, and restricted freedom of speech and universities.
Russification: Non-Russian groups (Poles, Finns, Jews) were forced to adopt Russian language and culture. Jews faced pogroms (violent attacks) and discrimination.
Economic modernization under Alexander III: Finance minister Sergei Witte encouraged railway building, foreign loans, and industry, laying foundations for growth.
Nicholas II becomes tsar (1894): He was weak and indecisive, but continued Witte’s policies to modernize Russia’s economy and industry.
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Introduction to Alexander III
Alexander III became Tsar of Russia in 1881 after his father, Alexander II, was assassinated.
He believed that reforms were dangerous and could lead to instability, so he ruled with an iron fist.
His main goal was to maintain absolute power and control over the vast Russian Empire.
DefinitionAutocracyA system of government where one person has absolute power and authority.
AnalogyThink of Alexander III's rule like a strict school principal who believes that strict rules and punishments are the only way to maintain order.
ExampleAfter his father's assassination, Alexander III immediately reversed many of the liberal reforms that had been introduced, such as reducing the power of local governments and increasing censorship.
NoteAlexander III's reign was marked by a return to conservative policies and a rejection of liberal reforms.