Rasputin
Russian Religion Russian Orthodox Filled with Mysticism Many Miracles Tsar is father of Russian people – pray to him
Background Grew up a peasant in Siberia Supernatural power Vision of virgin Mary Married w 3 kids (also had child w/ other woman) Religious pilgrimage to Greece and Jerusalem 1901 Walked entire way
Romanov Family 5 children – 4 girls and 1 boy Alexei – heir to the throne Hemophiliac – cannot stop bleeding – intense pain Family hides Alexei’s condition from the world Several near death experiences
Rasputin – Miracle Worker Somehow knows of Alexei’s condition – claims he can help Gains access to Alexei through family friend Stopped the bleeding Hypnosis? Bleeding stopped each time “Our Friend” and “Holy Man”
Rasputin’s Influence Major influence over royal family – prophet , healer Go through him to talk with Tsar Private life, Socializing, and bribery – turned people against him.
Downfall Tsar goes to front, Rasputin rules Russia with Tsarina Rasputin gives military orders from his “dreams” All huge failures – Tsar losses support at home Predicts that if member of Tsar’s family kills him – Tsar will be overthrown
Murder By nephew of Tsar and others Cyanide- x5 lethal dose Shot…in back Shot again… shoulder Shot again…head Beaten with club Thrown off bridge Placed under ice = died of drowning