Compare and contrast the rule of Alexander II and Alexander III.

The question requires that candidates give an account of the similarities and differences in the reigns of the two tsars. Candidates may choose to examine domestic policies, the nature of their rule and foreign policies. The major difference was that Alexander II was a reformer and Alexander III a reactionary; some may argue that both were autocrats. There should be reference to Alexander II’s major reforms and how Alexander III reversed them to some extent. For example, the appointment of Land Captains by Alexander III undermined the zemstvo, he also increased church influence over education as well as increasing censorship. Both were keen to promote economic growth (emancipation of the serfs, the development of railways and the promotion of industrialization) and there may be some discussion as to how far this was achieved. In foreign policy both were concerned to recover Russian status as a great power (Russo-Turkish War, membership of the Dreikaiserbund) and both were keen to extend Russian influence in the Balkans. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates give an account of the similarities and differences in the reigns of the two tsars. This was a popular question and was often answered successfully. Candidates tended to know more about Alexander II than Alexander III. Comparisons and contrasts were often well-developed.