Why was World War 1 so damaging politically

Mistake 1 Nicholas replaced the popular and experienced Grand Duke Nickolai Nikolaevich in August 1915 with himself. Nicolas’s decision left his German, unpopular and inexperienced wife Alexandra in control of Russia during the brutal and losing war against Germany. His wife constantly affirmed him through an extraordinary 400 letters that his decision to become supreme Commander in chief of the Russian army demonstrated true ‘mastery, proving Nicholas as someone whom Russia cannot exist’

The Tsar symbolically abandoned the Russian people in their desperate time of need, leaving a disliked German to lead them. The military defeats and high casualties resulted in lack of confidence in the Tsar, who now directly was blamed for the loses in World War 1.

Mistake 2 Encouraged by the advice of Rasputin, she grew in confidence and began relishing the opportunity to be involved in maintaining autocratic rule. She was politically inexperienced and often influenced by Rasputin’s decisions. His decision to remove the Supreme Commander in Chief whom many Russian people trusted was rumoured to be one inspired by Germans such as his wife who was in control of Russia. Many rumours surrounded Tsarina Alexandra being on the German side and wanting to harm Russia's economy, reputation and culture.

It is known that Rodzyanko (a close friend and trusted minister) telegraphed Nicholas requesting that he appoint a Prime Minister who had the confidence of the people. “The last hour has come when the destiny of the country had the dynasty is being decided.” Rodzyanko received no answer to his telegraph.

Source 1 Questions What does this visual primary source represent about Tsarina Alexandra ? What is the meaning of the size of each of the three characters? What truth was there in such a public impression that the royals were merely Rasputin’s puppets? Source 1 Source 2 Questions Who was this man and what part did he play in Russia (Politically)? Source 2

By Nielz and Claus