Lec 12: Serfdom and its Critics

Question 1

Through which system did serfdom emerge? When did it emerge?

Answer 1

The pomest’e system (land-for-service). It emerged through the consolidation of nobility and Russian autocracy in the 16th century.

(Therefore it emerged under Ivan III, first muscovite prince to name himself “tsar”)

Question 2

What are the two categories of serfs? Describe them.

Answer 2

Seignorial: lived on nobles’ estate and worked for the
State: lived on state land and payed money dues

Question 3

What type of payment was demanded of serfs who lived on more fertile lands?

Answer 3

more forced labor than money

Question 4

When did it become illegal to kill a serf?

Answer 4

the late 18th century

Question 5

Who is Stepan Razin?

Answer 5

The leader of a 17th century peasant revolt. Revolts were spontaneous and directed at the “evil boyars”, never at the Tsar.

Question 6

Until when did serfdom persist?

Answer 6

the 19th century

Question 7

What are the liberals’ critics about serfdom?

Answer 7

• immoral
• economically holds back russia (can’t develop industry)
• serfs have no incentive to produce more