Chap 1: Overview of Tsarist Russia and Its Autocracy (1855-1894)

Flashcards summarizing key concepts and terms from the lecture notes on Tsarist Russia.

Autocracy

A system of government in which one person possesses unlimited power, specifically referring to the absolute authority of the tsar in Russia.

tsar

The title of the emperor of Russia, indicating an autocratic ruler with supreme power.

Serfdom

A system of forced labor where peasants (serfs) were bound to the land and required to serve their landlords.

Orthodox Church

The national church of Russia, which was closely tied to the authority of the tsar and played a significant role in demanding obedience from the populace.

Holy Synod

The governing body of the Russian Orthodox Church, directed by the tsar, to oversee church affairs.

Bureaucracy

A system of government with appointed officials that manage government functions, though often plagued by corruption in Tsarist Russia.

Censorship

The suppression of speech, public communication, or other information; used by the tsarist regime to control ideas and prevent dissent.

Intelligentsia

The intellectual elite of Russian society, who often advocated for reform and modernization.

Poll Tax

A direct tax levied on individuals; significant in the financing of the Russian government and notably burdensome for the peasantry.

Crimean War

A conflict from 1853 to 1856, where Russia faced significant defeat, exposing its military inadequacies and prompting calls for reform.