The 1905 Revolution

Asses the reasons for the tsars survival of the 1905 revolution

The 1905 revolution was a time of great unrest among the Russian people. Revolutionary groups were beginning to emerge and become an significant threat to the Tsar. The Tsar had been the leader in Russia for many generations however the Russian people were beginning to feel that the tsarist regime had become outdated. Keeping up with the European countries was essential in order for Russia to become a leading nation, these western civilisations had become democratic, they felt Russia had to follow. Nicholas II had grown up being influenced by the tutor of Pobedonastev, he therefore felt very strongly that change was not necessary and that the autocratic system must stay in place. In this essay I will assess how the tsar manges to survive this revolution and explore the fact that this "Revolution" was not actually a revolution at all as the leader remained in control.

There were long term reasons as to why the Tsar survived, one of these, perhaps the most important was the lack of unity amongst his opposition.

Another long term reason as to why the Tsar survived the 1905 revolution was the huge loan that was secured. By the end of 1905 Russias economy was struggling. Thanks to falling tax revenues and the huge cost of war Russia was in extreme financial trouble. Sergei Witte, who served under Nicholas, believed that the only way Russia could catch up with the west was through state capitalism. Witte consequently managed to secure large foreign loans in an attempt to stabilise the economy, the majority of these loans came from French bankers. These crucial loans meant that the government had money, not only to pay off some of their debts but also to invest in the people. Some of the invested money was spent on the troops, ensuring that their loyalty remained with Nicholas. This loyalty was absolutely essential to the tsars survival.

Although there was mass opposition against the Tsar, he used particularly effective methods at repressing the rebellions.

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