1.5. Alexander II's Great Reforms

What was one of the key motivations for Alexander II to implement reforms?

• To decentralize power from the tsar
• To increase the authority of the nobility
• To re-establish serfdom as a cornerstone of Russia
• To achieve strong and stable governance in Russia

Answer explanation

Alexander II's main motivation was to create a stable and strong Russia.

Which part of the central government remained unchanged under Alexander II?

• The Duma
• The Imperial Council of State
• The Ministry of War
• The Council of Noble Landowners

Answer explanation

The Imperial Council of State continued to operate under Alexander II.

What role did the Senate play in the central government of Russia?

• Acted as the Supreme Court of Russia
• Served primarily as an advisory board
• Managed international diplomatic relations
• Oversaw all military operations

Answer explanation

The Senate acted as the Supreme Court and confirmed titles of nobility.

What happened to the first and second sections of the Personal Chancellery of his Imperial Majesty during Alexander II's rule?

• They were merged into one section
• They were retained and given more power
• They were abolished after 1861
• They were expanded to include more advisers

Answer explanation

The first and second sections of the Chancellery were abolished after 1861.

What was the main responsibility of the Council of Ministers under Alexander II?

• To conduct military reviews and assessments
• To discuss draft legislation and pass it to the tsar
• To manage the economy and financial affairs
• To oversee local governance across Russia

Answer explanation

The Council of Ministers was responsible for discussing draft legislation.

Which social institution was considered a cornerstone of autocratic Russia prior to Alexander II's reforms?

• The military
• Serfdom
• The Church
• Education

Answer explanation

Serfdom was considered the cornerstone of autocratic governance in Russia.

How did Alexander II's personal influence affect the reform process in Russia?

• He resisted the need for any reforms
• His strong personal pressure pushed for many reforms
• He focused solely on military reforms
• He was indifferent, allowing others to dictate reforms

Answer explanation

Alexander II exerted strong personal pressure to ensure reforms were implemented.

In the context of Alexander II's reforms, what is meant by 'relative success'?

• Success means increased power for the nobility
• Success is based solely on economic outcomes
• The success of reforms is judged universally the same
• Assessment of reforms varies depending on perspective

Answer explanation

The effectiveness of the reforms can vary significantly based on one's viewpoint.

What was one primary restriction faced by Jews in Russia prior to 1855?

• Jews were not allowed to pay taxes.
• Jews were required to serve in the military indefinitely.
• Jews could not practice any form of trade.
• Jews could only live in the border regions known as the 'Pale of Settlement'.

Answer explanation

The 'Pale of Settlement' restricted Jewish residency to certain areas, limiting their economic contributions.

Which reform allowed Jewish merchants of the First Guild to live and trade throughout the Empire?

• The Policy on Jewish Artisans of 1865.
• The abolition of the 'pale' for Jewish merchants in 1859.
• The employment law for Jewish soldiers in 1867.
• The lifting of restrictions on foreign Jews in 1860.

Answer explanation

The 1859 reform allowed First Guild Jewish merchants to live and trade across the Empire.