Ten fun facts about Alexander II

1. A Powerful Monarch

Alexander II was a powerful monarch, ruling not only as Tsar of Russia, but also as King of Poland and Grand Prince of Finland. His reign saw the emancipation of the serfs, the introduction of local self-government, and the establishment of the zemstvo system of local government. He also sought to modernize the Russian economy and military, and to promote education and culture.

Also → Aristotle, the Taught Alexander the Great

2. Alexander II, Russian reformer, was highly successful

Alexander II was a highly successful Russian reformer, often referred to as the 'Tsar Liberator'. He was the most successful reformer since Peter the Great, introducing sweeping reforms to the Russian Empire in the 19th century. These reforms included the emancipation of the serfs, the introduction of local self-government, the reorganization of the judicial system, and the modernization of the military and educational systems. His reforms had a lasting impact on the Russian Empire, and his legacy is still remembered today.

Also → Russia's Tsar Kolokol bell is the largest in the world

3. Alexander II, Tsar of Russia, emancipates serfs

Alexander II, also known as Alexander the Liberator, was a Russian Tsar who made a lasting impact on the country. His most significant achievement was the emancipation of serfs in 1861, which granted them personal freedom and the right to own land. This monumental reform was a major step forward in the history of Russia, and it was largely due to Alexander II's efforts that the serfs were finally liberated from centuries of servitude.

Also → "Alexander The Great Learns From Aristotle"

4. Russia's Reformer Tsar

Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia, was a reformer who made sweeping changes to the country. He was responsible for reorganizing the judicial system, introducing elected local judges, abolishing capital punishment, and introducing universal military service. He also set up the zemstvo system, which allowed for local self-government, and ended some of the privileges of the nobility. To further promote education, he also encouraged the development of universities. These reforms had a lasting impact on Russia and helped to shape the country into what it is today.

Also → Alexander Brongniart: Father of Botany and Architect

5. Tsar Alexander II Sells Alaska to US to Block Britain

Alexander II was a Russian Tsar who was highly aware of the potential consequences of war. In 1867, he made the decision to sell Alaska to the United States, in order to prevent it from falling into British hands in the event of another war. This was a strategic move, as Alaska was a remote colony and Alexander II was determined to protect it from any potential threats. The sale of Alaska to the United States was a major event in history, and it was a testament to Alexander II's foresight and commitment to protecting his country.

Also → Alexander's conquest of Syria

6. Stabilizing Europe in 1872

Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia, was a key figure in the stabilization of the European situation in 1872. He joined forces with Germany and Austria to form the League of the Three Emperors, a powerful alliance that aimed to maintain peace and order in the region. This league was a major success, and it helped to ensure that the European situation remained stable for many years to come. Alexander II's involvement in this alliance was a testament to his diplomatic skills and his commitment to peace and stability in Europe.

Also → Alexander Graham Bell Wins Volta Prize

7. The Assassination of Alexander II Ends an Era of Reform

The assassination of Alexander II in 1881 was a devastating blow to the reform movement in Russia, as it had been under his rule that the country had seen a period of unprecedented change. His reign had seen the emancipation of the serfs, the introduction of local government, the establishment of a judicial system, and the introduction of a number of other reforms. His death marked the end of an era of reform and the beginning of a period of stagnation and repression.

Also → Artist Larry D. Alexander

8. Tsar Alexander II Loved His Irish Setter Milord

Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia from 1855 to 1881, was a great lover of animals, particularly his beloved Irish Setter, Milord. The Tsar was known to take Milord on long walks around the grounds of the Winter Palace, and the two were often seen together in the gardens of the palace. Milord was a constant companion to Alexander II, and the Tsar was said to have been deeply devoted to his four-legged friend.

Also → Bogdanov's positivism helped shape Russian Marxism

9. Tsar of Russia in Jules Verne's Michael Strogoff

Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia from 1855 to 1881, was so influential that he was featured in Jules Verne's novel Michael Strogoff, which was published during his lifetime in 1876. The novel, which is set in the late 19th century, opens with two chapters dedicated to Alexander II, highlighting his importance in the story. The novel follows the adventures of Michael Strogoff, a courier for the Tsar, and Alexander II's presence in the opening chapters serves to emphasize the importance of his role in the story.

Also → The Life and Legacy of Alexander Fleming

10. The Magnificent Sinner: A Film About Alexander II

Alexander II, the Tsar of Russia, is the subject of the 1959 film The Magnificent Sinner. The film is a highly fictionalized account of the Tsar's romance with the woman who became his second wife, Princess Catherine Dolgorukov. The film follows the Tsar's journey from his first marriage to his second, and the obstacles he faced in his pursuit of true love. It is a romantic drama that highlights the Tsar's struggles to find happiness in a world of political turmoil.