The significance of the failure to industrialize was
demonstrated by the Crimean War (1854-1856). Britain and France defeated the
Russians because of their industrial economies. Tsar Alexander II was convinced
that reforms were necessary, and that meant resolving the issue of serfdom. The
serfs were emancipated in 1861. They received land but did not gain any
political freedoms. The emancipation created a larger urban labor force, but it
did not spur agricultural productivity.
Social protest was heightened by the limitations of reform and industrialization. Peasants suffered from famine, redemption payments, taxes, and population pressure. Business people and professionals sought more personal freedom and political rights. Educated Russians wanted radical political change and deep social reform while preserving the Russian culture. Some of the intellectuals became anarchists who
hoped to triumph by winning peasant support. When peasants were not interested, some turned to terrorism. Working-class unrest in the cities was revealed through union formation and strikes to compensate for lack of political outlets. During this era, literacy increased rapidly and a market for popular reading matter developed. Some women gained access to higher education and to the
professions. In family organization, Russia followed earlier European trends.
demonstrated by the Crimean War (1854-1856). Britain and France defeated the
Russians because of their industrial economies. Tsar Alexander II was convinced
that reforms were necessary, and that meant resolving the issue of serfdom. The
serfs were emancipated in 1861. They received land but did not gain any
political freedoms. The emancipation created a larger urban labor force, but it
did not spur agricultural productivity.
Social protest was heightened by the limitations of reform and industrialization. Peasants suffered from famine, redemption payments, taxes, and population pressure. Business people and professionals sought more personal freedom and political rights. Educated Russians wanted radical political change and deep social reform while preserving the Russian culture. Some of the intellectuals became anarchists who
hoped to triumph by winning peasant support. When peasants were not interested, some turned to terrorism. Working-class unrest in the cities was revealed through union formation and strikes to compensate for lack of political outlets. During this era, literacy increased rapidly and a market for popular reading matter developed. Some women gained access to higher education and to the
professions. In family organization, Russia followed earlier European trends.