Crimean War

What date was the Crimean War?

1853- 1856

Russian aims?

A warm water port & access to the Mediterranean Sea, territory from the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, avoid British/ French influence in the Balkans.

Key battles?

Inkerman, Balaklava (charge of the light brigade), Siege of Sebastopol- naval base in Black Sea

Russia’s weaknesses?

Communications/ technology → Russia walked to the front whereas allies used steam ships (lack of railways) , allies used telegraph whereas Russia used messengers

Serf army → could only follow basic orders, low morale whereas allied soldiers more literate could follow more complex orders & popular press boosted morale

Russian success?

Use of modern mines in the Baltic

Destroyed Turkish fleet at Sinope with explosive shells

How many Russian troops die?

500,000/700,000

How many allied troops die?

250,000/600,000

Reforms?

Emancipation of the Serfs/ military reforms under Milyutin to create more educated peasants

Focus on railways to improve supply lines

Education reforms to improve literacy rates, as allied press had been effective at gaining support at home

Zemstvos to create politically active middle class

Limitations to reforms?

Many liberal reforms reversed after assassination attempt in 1866

R-T war shows limits of reforms

Influenced by other factors: threat of Pugachev (impersonated Peter III), AII personality, Zemstvos favoured the wealthy.