Was Nicholas II, the last Tsar to rule Russia responsible for the uprising of the Russian Revolution? The causes of the Russian Revolution can be traced back even before Nicholas II acceded the throne. The 19th century was a turbulent one for the Tsars in which the latter half, 1861 saw big change under Alexander II who abolished slavery. Peasants got a taste for freedom and demanded more reform but this was eradicated under Alexander III. The following paragraphs will explain my reasons why Nicholas II was partially responsible in causing the Russian Revolution. .
In 1894 Nicholas II took helm of the throne from his father Alexander III, who died at an early age on Nov 1 1894. It was an unexpected death and a big shock to Nicholas. The following quote comes from Nicholas who was talking to his cousin Grand Duke Alexander Mikhailovich after the death of Alexander III. "Sandro, whatever am I going to do? What is to happen to me, to you.to Alix? to Mother, to all Russia? I am not prepared to be Tsar.I have no idea how to talk to the ministers." Quite simply Nicholas wasn't quite up to the task to govern a huge and vast empire. Many historians believe that Nicholas lacked the skills and experience to rule a country that was rapidly changing. .
Nicholas like his predecessors that ruled Russia took the form of autocratic rule. Power was passed from King to the eldest son and not to the people. In the following speech Nicholas said, ""I shall maintain the principle of autocracy just as firmly and unflinchingly as it was preserved by my unforgettable father." Nicholas also quashed the notion of local governments in the form of Dumas by saying "carried away by senseless dreams" Nicholas being heir to the throne had a simple view on life. "I have the firm and absolute faith that the destiny of Russia, my own fate and that of my family are in the hands of Almighty God, who has placed me where I am.
