Answer to Question #203649 in History for Jacqueline

Question

Analyze the reasons why the domestic reforms introduced by Alexander ll after 1856 increased rather than diminished revolutionary sentiment in Russia

Answer 1

He was afraid of revolution and began with the Emancipation Act, which automatically gave serfs some more freedom as they were still bound to their land by MIRs and had to pay "redemption payments" for 49 years. 

- The reform was encouraged by abolishing serfdom and witnessing the failure of Russian troops in the Crimean War

- Legislation was necessary as peasants needed to have their defined place in Russia. The legal system on the local level improved, although peasants were trialed by separate courts, strengthening class division. 

- The reforms of local governments meant that in 1864 Zemstvos be introduced. It encouraged class division, but at the same time, improved administration and proved that Russians could be democratic.

- The reform of education was to modernize and strengthen to improve the Russian standards of living.