Russian Opponents to Alexander II

Who were the Populists? Although the Tsars of Russia ruled autocratically and no political parties were allowed to exist, this did not mean that there was no organised opposition to their rule. The system of repression in Russia simply meant that any kind of political opposition was forced underground – kept hidden. One of these groups were the Populists or Narodniks! The Narodniks wanted power to be placed in the hands of the peasants. They: followed Herzen and Lavrov’s ideas. between over 2000 students went to the Russian countryside to educate peasants. Their slogan was ‘To the People’.

Populists (Narodniks) First revolutionary movement in Russia during the 1870s. Primarily lead by Russian students! Believed change needed to come from the peasants! The Okhrana infiltrated their groups – many arrested.

A terrorist organisation Continued to work with the peasants! Believed that only an assassination would trigger a revolution! Wanted to lead a social revolution – coming from the peasants!

Government Oppression Government Repression With threats on his life & revolutionary movements forming in Russia the Tsar decided to use more repression with his people. Alexander II began to re-impose restrictions on the people. This suggested a return to the more traditional & conservative nature of his father. Censorship was tightened from Police supervised universities. Zemstvas were forbidden to communicate with each other. Reactionaries were appointed as ministers e.g. Count Peter Shuvalov. In there were two show trials of Populists in Moscow. Over 250 students were put on trial & were deported to Siberia. The Tsar became increasingly reclusive but he was about to grant Russia its first elected parliament when he was assassinated.