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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
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Khadijah Baz
08/12/2025
History
Alexander II overview
200
•
8 Dec 2025
•
Alexander II transformed Russia through sweeping reforms during his reign,... Show more
Think of Alexander II as Russia's great moderniser - he inherited a conservative, backward country and decided it desperately needed updating. After Russia's humiliating defeat in the Crimean War, he knew change was essential for survival.
His Great Reforms were game-changing. The Emancipation Reform of 1861 freed 23 million serfs from their inferior social status - imagine suddenly giving freedom to nearly a quarter of the population! He also relaxed media censorship, modernised the army and navy, and even improved conditions for Jews and other minorities.
Economically, Russia was in a right state after the Crimean War. Alexander's finance minister introduced proper public accounting for the first time and abolished the corrupt tax farming system where tax collectors could pocket extra money. They established the State Bank in 1860, followed by municipal and savings banks.
However, keeping the rouble stable proved tricky. By 1876, they'd improved Russia's financial backing from a measly 10.6% to 29% - but the Russo-Turkish War later undid much of this progress.
Key Point: Alexander believed in autocracy but recognised that Russia needed liberal reforms to compete with Western powers.
Alexander's educational reforms opened doors that had been slammed shut for centuries. In 1858, he scrapped university entry quotas and provided more financial support, meaning poor students could finally access higher education. His minister Golovnin expanded elementary and secondary schools, crucially making education available regardless of religious belief.
The judiciary reform of 1864 might be his most progressive achievement. Gone were the corrupt, witch-trial-style proceedings - in came proper barristers, open trials, and newspaper reporting of court cases. This gave Russia a Western-style legal system, though peasants were still excluded initially.
His military reforms were equally revolutionary. Before 1861, serfs served 25 years after being drafted by their owners - hardly motivating! Alexander introduced universal military service across all social classes in 1874 and divided the country into 15 military districts for easier mobilisation.
These reforms gave Alexander more confidence in foreign policy. He pursued Pan-Slavism and attempted to expand Russian influence, leading to the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78. Though this ended with the Treaty of San Stefano, it showed Russia was back on the international stage.
Remember: These reforms weren't just about being nice - they were strategic moves to prevent another military disaster like the Crimean War.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Alexander II transformed Russia through sweeping reforms during his reign, earning him the nickname "the Liberator." His most famous achievement was freeing 23 million serfs in 1861, but he also revolutionised education, the military, and the justice system to modernise... Show more
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Think of Alexander II as Russia's great moderniser - he inherited a conservative, backward country and decided it desperately needed updating. After Russia's humiliating defeat in the Crimean War, he knew change was essential for survival.
His Great Reforms were game-changing. The Emancipation Reform of 1861 freed 23 million serfs from their inferior social status - imagine suddenly giving freedom to nearly a quarter of the population! He also relaxed media censorship, modernised the army and navy, and even improved conditions for Jews and other minorities.
Economically, Russia was in a right state after the Crimean War. Alexander's finance minister introduced proper public accounting for the first time and abolished the corrupt tax farming system where tax collectors could pocket extra money. They established the State Bank in 1860, followed by municipal and savings banks.
However, keeping the rouble stable proved tricky. By 1876, they'd improved Russia's financial backing from a measly 10.6% to 29% - but the Russo-Turkish War later undid much of this progress.
Key Point: Alexander believed in autocracy but recognised that Russia needed liberal reforms to compete with Western powers.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Alexander's educational reforms opened doors that had been slammed shut for centuries. In 1858, he scrapped university entry quotas and provided more financial support, meaning poor students could finally access higher education. His minister Golovnin expanded elementary and secondary schools, crucially making education available regardless of religious belief.
The judiciary reform of 1864 might be his most progressive achievement. Gone were the corrupt, witch-trial-style proceedings - in came proper barristers, open trials, and newspaper reporting of court cases. This gave Russia a Western-style legal system, though peasants were still excluded initially.
His military reforms were equally revolutionary. Before 1861, serfs served 25 years after being drafted by their owners - hardly motivating! Alexander introduced universal military service across all social classes in 1874 and divided the country into 15 military districts for easier mobilisation.
These reforms gave Alexander more confidence in foreign policy. He pursued Pan-Slavism and attempted to expand Russian influence, leading to the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78. Though this ended with the Treaty of San Stefano, it showed Russia was back on the international stage.
Remember: These reforms weren't just about being nice - they were strategic moves to prevent another military disaster like the Crimean War.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key positives and negatives of Alexander II's reforms in Russia. This summary highlights the impact on serfs, education, local governance, and censorship, providing a comprehensive understanding of the social and political changes during his reign. Ideal for students studying Russian history and reform movements.
HistoryExplore the effectiveness of Tsarist reforms and policies from 1905 to 1914 in consolidating authority. This detailed analysis covers Stolypin's land reforms, the role of the Dumas, and the impact of repression on revolutionary movements. Ideal for higher history students seeking to understand the complexities of Russian autocracy during this pivotal period.
HistoryExplore the key repression strategies employed by Alexander II to maintain autocracy in Russia from 1855 to 1881. This summary covers the impact of military force on peasant uprisings, censorship measures, educational reforms, and the legal system's role in suppressing revolutionary thought. Ideal for A-level History students studying Russian autocracy and the reforms of Alexander II.
HistoryExplore the complex dynamics of Tsarism in Russia between 1905 and 1914. This analysis covers key reforms, including political, agricultural, and industrial changes, and evaluates their impact on the Tsar's authority. Understand the factors leading to increased discontent among peasants and workers, the assassination of Stolypin, and the overall weakening of Tsarism. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth understanding of Russian history.
HistoryExplore the key events and social dynamics of the 1905 Russian Revolution, including the causes, major strikes, and the impact of the Russo-Japanese War. This summary highlights the role of workers, peasants, and the Tsarist regime, providing essential insights for A-Level History students studying Russia from 1894 to 1941.
HistoryApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Sociology