1.1 The Nature of Autocratic Rule Flashcards
What is autocracy?
Tsar has absolute power and there is no constitution of parliament to limit his authority.
What is the core principle of autocracy?
Total control by the tsar -> believed he ruled by divine light
What are the core principles of nationality?
Focus on Russification, promoting Russian culture, language, and traditions. Suppressing local identities of ethnic minorities (ie: Poles, Jews, Ukrainians…)
What are the core principles of orthodoxy?
Russian Orthodox church supported the Tsar. Supported idea -> Tsar was God’s representative on Earth. Influential (80% of populace -> peasants) their life was as good as God wanted it.
Alexander III date of reign and what happened to his father?
1881-1894; his father was assassinated
What did Alexander III do?
- Strong opposition to liberalism
- He reversed his father’s reforms
- He maintained autocratic rule and power
Why was Alexander III described as reactionary?
He wanted orthodoxy, nationalism and a return to traditional values
What was the statue of universities in 1881?
Only nobles
What kind of ruler was Alexander III seen as?
Strong, repressive ruler. He imposed harsh measures to suppress dissent
Nicholas II date of reign
1894-1917
What kind of person was he?
More indecisive, less politically skilled, not ready to rule
Who did he rule after and what happened to the previous tsar before him?
Nicholas II came to power after Alexander III unexpected death?
What did Nicholas II continue and what was he like as a ruler ?
- He continued autocracy (tried to) but struggled to effectively address growing unrest and opposition.
- He relied on advisors and maintained belief in his divine right to rule. It made him resistant to reforms.
Who was Konstantin Pobedonostsev?
- chief advisor to Alexander III and Nicholas II
- chief procurator of the Holy Synod Church, 1880-1905
What were the views of Konstantin Pobedonostsev?
Konstantin Pobedonostsev was a staunch (loyal) supporter of autocracy, orthodoxy, and nationalism
