AS History Topic Guide: Tsarist Russia 1855-1881

Background

• In 1855, Russia was undeveloped compared to Western nations.
• 85% of the population were illiterate peasants, known as serfs.
• Serfs lived in communes regulated by village elders, could be bought, sold, and beaten.
• The Tsar ruled autocratically and was head of the Orthodox Church.

Alexander II's Reign (1855-1881)

• Came to power during the Crimean War, which highlighted Russia's backwardness.
• After losing Sebastopol in 1855, Alexander realized the need for reform as Russia lagged behind other European powers.

Motivations for Emancipation of the Serfs

1. Political Motives

   • Dependence on nobility, who were burdened by debt and critical of the regime.

2. Economic Motives

   • Serfs tied to land, limiting workforce mobility and economic reform.
   • By 1859, the state faced a debt of 45 million rubles.

3. Moral and Intellectual Pressure

   • Push towards European-style modernization, inspired by examples in France and Britain.

The Emancipation Edict of 1861

• Reforms

  • Serfs declared free, given rights to marry, own property, and form businesses.
  • Received cottages and land, but had to make 49 annual redemption payments.

• Challenges

  • Redemption payments kept peasants tied to land with heavy burdens.
  • Nobility resented loss of serf-based economy.
  • Peasant uprisings increased, with 647 riots in four months post-emancipation.

Further Reforms

1. Judicial Reforms (1864)

   • Established a unified court system.
   • Introduced jury trials and made proceedings public.
   • Equal judgment under the law.

2. Local Government Reforms (1864)

   • Created the Zemstvo, a local government body.
   • Provided local representation and improved public services.

3. Military Reforms (1874)

   • Conscription became universal.
   • Service reduced from 25 to 15 years.
   • Modern weaponry introduced.

4. Educational Reforms

   • Primary education expanded and controlled by Zemstvo.
   • Number of schools and university students tripled.

Opposition and Reaction

• Relaxation of censorship led to the spread of radical ideas, including Marx's 'Das Kapital.'
• Emergence of opposition groups such as Young Russia and the People’s Will.
• People’s Will successfully assassinated Alexander II in 1881.

Conclusion

• Alexander II's reign marked by significant reforms but also widespread unrest and opposition.
• His assassination in 1881 was a turning point, influencing future policies of his successor, Alexander III.

Note: These notes summarize the key points of Alexander II's reign, focusing on the socio-economic and political reforms and their impact on Russian society. For further insights, follow upcoming sessions on Alexander III.