Attempts at reform: Alexander II; emancipation of the serfs; domestic and military reform
Alexander II responded to Russia's backwardness by freeing the serfs in 1861 and modernising the army, courts, and local government. His reforms tried to strengthen Russia without giving up Tsarist control.
Real World
The 1861 Emancipation Edict freed 23 million serfs but forced them to pay 'redemption payments' over 49 years for the land they received — many peasants were actually worse off economically than before, fuelling rural discontent that persisted into the 1900s.
Exam Focus
For 'how successful' questions on Alexander II's reforms, measure success against his own aim of preserving autocracy, not against Western liberal standards.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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