History AII - Domestic and Military Reforms

Reforms of Alexander II

Military Reforms

• Universal military service for males under 20

• Reduced period of service from 25 to 6 regular, 9 reserves

• Improved soldier welfare

• Ended military service as punishment

• Introduced better weaponry and transport links

Local Governmental Reforms

• Decree of 1864 introduced local assemblies known as zemstvas

• Controlled distribution of land, similar to mir

Judicial and Legal Reforms

• All charges faced jury by trial

• Innocent until proven guilty

• Open court system

• Judges independent of government, giving better pay and training

Education Reforms

• Local education moved from churches to zemstva

• Universities allowed to self govern

• Universal primary education

Other Domestic Reforms

• Relaxation of press censorship

• Minor reforms of the church

• Relaxation on national minorities