Changes in Local Government

Question 1

Before 1861

Answer 1

Village issues discussed by the mir.

Local nobility acted as a bridge between Central Government and local communities

Question 2

Emancipation of the Serfs

Answer 2

1861

Nobility ceased to play a role in local government and affairs were controlled instead by local police constables appointed by the Interior Ministry

Question 3

Zemtzva

Answer 3

1864

Local government council elected by landowners and peasants.
Only 43/70 provinces had them by 1900

Question 4

Third Element

Answer 4

By the end of the 1800s many Zemztva councils were dominated by lawyers, doctors and teachers known as the 3rd element. Many wanted central gov. reform.

Question 5

Soviets

Answer 5

First emerged in 1905

Aim was to coordinate strikes and protect factory workers. Named the Petrograd Soviet in 1917

Question 6

Power of the Soviet

Answer 6

From March to October 1917 some argue that the Soviets essentially controlled Russia, rather than the PG.
Had control of the railways, post and most of the army, thus had a lot of power

Question 7

Judicial Changes over time

Answer 7

1864 - Legal reforms. Jury introduced for criminal cases. Better pay for judges reduced corruption

1877 - After an attempt on Alexander II’s life a new department of the Senate was set up to try political cases. Murder of the Tsar in 1881 showed that this failed

1881 - Special courts designed for political cases

1917 onwards - Dominated by the idea of ‘revolutionary justice’. Criminal Code of 1921 legalised the use of terror to deter crime