How significant were Socialist and Marxist ideas in the growth of opposition to tsarist rule in Russia in the years 1855 to 1894?

Point 1

significance of socialism to revolutionary groups under Alexander II

Most were socialist and believed that the agrarian nature of Russian society prepared the people to become socialist entirely

Substantiated by the revolutionary groups and their aims

use quotes from revolutionaries to support like Alexander Herzen

Point 2

The significance of socialism and Marxism to peasants who were conservative and loyal to the tsar held back growing opposition to him as the large majority of the country were peasants

however, they were naturally socialist through their commune

Substantiate with Peter Lavrov

The peasants didn’t aid opposition to the tsar but socialism was still important to their culture which consequently aided revolution

Point 3

Marxism under Alexander III and the possibility of revolutionary thought

marxism was liked as it was a scientific approach and therefore it developed in the intelligentsia

emergency measures prevented true revolutionary thought

weak argument as Marxism still developed under AIII

He was clearly worried about socialist revolutions he introduced liberal changes such as reducing working hours for women and children despite trying to industrialise Russia

Conclusion

Socialism and Marxism were significant to the growing opposition against the Tsar.