Russia: Reform and Backlash

By Qveen Kaska

  • Ascending The Throne

    Alexander II come to the throne during the Crimean War. His reign represents the pattern of reform and repression used by his father and grandfather.

  • The Royal Decree

    After being surrounded on all sides, Alexander II finally agreed to reforms. On this date, he issued a royal decree that required emancipation, or otherwise known as the freeing of the serfs.
  • Period: to

    The Socialists Little To No Success

    In the 1870s, some socialists went to live and work among peasants, preaching reform and rebellion. They had little success. The failure of the movement, combined with renewed government repression, sparked anger among radicals.

  • The Assassination Of A Leader

    On March 13, 1881, terrorists assassinated Alexander II right after angry radicals were angered due to the failure of the socialist movement and the government's renewed repression.

  • A Breakout War

    When war broke out between Russia and Japan in 1904, Nicholas II called on his people to fight for "the Faith, the Tsar, and the Fatherland." Despite all of their efforts, the Russians suffered one humiliating defeat after another.

  • The Revolution Of 1905

    In the months, that followed Bloody Sunday, discontent exploded across Russia. Strikes tripled, workers took over local governments, peasants revolted and demanded land, and terrorists targeted officials. It got to the extent where Nicholas was forced to announce sweeping reforms.

  • The Peaceful March

    A young Orthodox priest organized a peaceful march for Sunday, January 22, 1905. Marchers flowed through the streets of St. Petersburg towards the tsar's Winter Palace.

  • The First Duma

    In 1906, the first Duma met, but the tsar quickly dissolved it when leaders criticized the government. A new prime minister was then appointed.

  • Another Leader Assassinated

    Stolypin was assassinated after failing to meet the broad needs of most Russians, and dissatisfaction still simmered.

  • Still In Autocracy

    Several more Dumas met during this period, but new voting laws made sure they were conservative. By 1914, Russia was still an autocracy, but one simmering with unrest.