The influence of the ROC Flashcards
What percentage of the Russian Empire’s population was Orthodox during Alexander III’s reign?
At least 70% of the population.
How strong was the bond between the autocracy and the Orthodox Church by 1894?
It was as strong as ever, reinforcing the link between the Tsar and the Church.
How did the Orthodox Church project imperial power?
By reading out imperial decrees and reporting opposition to the police.
How did Russification strengthen Church control?
It included forced conversions of Lutherans and Muslims to Orthodoxy.
What role did the Orthodox Church have in education under Alexander III?
Alexander III gave the ROC control of primary education.
Who was Konstantin Pobedonostsev and what was his influence?
He was the highest secular official in the ROC, Alexander III’s closest advisor, and tutor to Nicholas II.
How did urbanisation weaken Church control?
Peasants moved from rural areas (where the Church had strong influence) to slums in St. Petersburg and Moscow, where the Church had less control.
What impact did industrialisation have on Orthodox Church influence?
The Church struggled to control urban workers in massive factories like the Putilov Steel Works.
What political movements emerged in the 1890s that challenged Church influence?
Socialist political parties and illegal trade unions began to form.
