How Far Were Divisions Amongst Opponents Essay Example

they had contemplated on modifying their approaches or exhibiting a bit more flexibility. Furthermore, the Russian peasants labored for six days a week, with only Sunday off to go to church. The Russian church propagated the concept that God had ordained the Tsar's reign, a belief synonymous with the divine right.

The Russian populace was highly uneducated, with many holding the notion that voicing opposition towards the doctrine of the church or the divine authority would result in their condemnation to hell after death. This belief posed a significant hurdle for the Populists, who faced serious backlash after their successful plot to murder Tsar Alexander II. The execution of the conspirators by Alexander III, witnessed publicly by their fellow countrymen, sparked intense loathing for this opposition group; quite notable considering that these Populists constituted 85% of the predominantly agrarian society!

Referred to as the "Dear Father", the Tsar was viewed as a divine-appointed leader, and thus, no one desired to inflict harm upon him. He held the unique advantage of exercising authority over both military forces and Okhrana, a secret police unit. Given his total control over Russian soldiers, their steadfast loyalty to him was guaranteed - a fact that has been repeatedly demonstrated. It's important to highlight that Nicholas I played a vital part in establishing Okhrana. The Tsars were recognized for their effective management of both the armed forces and Okhrana.

Resisting the Tsar with force or protest would prompt a severe response from the military, leaving many demonstrators wounded or crushed by horses. This forceful show eliminated active threats to the Tsar while discouraging potential opposition, as they became

clear on the grim consequences of their defiance towards the 'Dear father'. The Okhrana, infamous for its shrewd tactics, would penetrate resistance groups and exacerbate their internal discord. Captured members of such groups were doomed to live out their days in Siberia's harsh, cold environment, a grim punishment indeed.

Following the assassination of Tsar Alexander II by the Populists, his son, Alexander III took over the reins of Tsarist Russia. Displaying exceptional acumen, Alexander III skilfully employed language to convince Russians that his actions were for their benefit. In order to earn the trust and respect of his religious disciples who were unlikely to question what they perceived as 'God's will', he frequently invoked God in his speeches. Furthermore, Alexander III repealed all reforms implemented by his father and predecessor, consequently curtailing the liberties and rights of Russian citizens as well as their foreign affairs.

Despite Alexander II's progress, Russia regressed by another three steps. Ultimately, I contend that the key to the endurance of the Tsarist Russia was the Army and the Okhrana. Their influential actions immobilized opposing factions and intimidated others from opposing the Tsarist rule. Their strategic use of violence coupled with a standby military force of one million proved extremely successful in assuring the Tsar's secure reign, maintaining his adversaries in their current predicament.