Topic 7.1: Empires and Industry (1750-1870)

The Russian Empire

Introduction

• The extent of Westernization in global states influenced their importance in the emerging global economy and society.
• Focus on the industrialization attempts of three major land empires: Russia, Ottoman Empire, and China.

Historical Context

• Peter the Great and Catherine the Great initiated Westernization and modernization efforts in Russia.
  • Built St. Petersburg as a window to the west.
  • Improved the military and the Navy.
  • Developed an impressive canal system and signed trade agreements with Great Britain.
  • Enhanced the education system.
• Despite reforms, societal structure remained feudal with serfs comprising 38% of the population (~23.1 million people by 1857).

Key Differences in Industrialization

• In the West, industrialization was private-sector driven; in Russia, it was state-driven, overseen by reform-minded czars.
• Russia's geography and larger population influenced its economic future differently than smaller Western European countries.
• Revenue from Russian exports (mainly grain) was used by landowners for personal gain rather than industrial investment.
• Conservative landowners resisted reforms that threatened their interests.
• Crimean War (1853-1856) highlighted Russia's lack of industrialization compared to Western Europe.

Alexander II's Reforms

• Began liberalizing and westernizing reforms post-Crimean War.
  • Promoted local self-government and universal military service.
  • Improved education and built railroads.
  • Emancipation Edict of 1861 freed 23 million serfs, anticipating a mobile labor force.
• However, many serfs continued traditional communal living, limiting economic impact.
• Reforms led to industrial growth but also fueled social tensions and eventually radical movements.

Alexander III's Continuation

• More socially conservative but continued industrialization efforts.
• Introduction of new agricultural techniques boosted food production.
• Enhanced the railway system and opened up Russia to foreign investments.
• By 1900, significant industrial growth, including becoming a leading producer of steel and petroleum.
• Industrialization brought unprecedented social changes and problems, including a new working class facing harsh conditions.

Early 20th Century and Revolution

• Massive population growth mainly in rural areas, leading to urban migration for industrial work.
• Growing middle class and a new working class radicalized without outlets for grievances.
• Russian Social Democratic Labor Party formed in 1898, involved in education and organizing.
• Revolution of 1905: Spontaneous strikes turned into widespread rebellion; significant impact including creation of Saint Petersburg Soviet and violent suppression.
• Post-Revolution reforms included a constitution, legalized trade unions, political parties, and a National Assembly (Duma).

Conclusion

• Continued industrial development despite ongoing social unrest and strikes.
• By 1914, Russia ranked fifth in industrial output, yet radicalism persisted, leading to the 1917 Russian Revolution.
• Diverse revolutionary activities and organizations contributed to ongoing instability and dissatisfaction with the tsarist regime.