How Did Nicholas II Contribute To The Downfall Of The Romanov Dynasty

In the early twentieth century, Russia was undergoing large changes in society, government and economics, that would inevitably affect their future as a country. Before these changes could come around, there was hardships, labour, and a desperate need for a revolution. This all occurred during the rule of the Romanov family. Though the family ruled for three centuries, the last ever Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, deeply contributed to their fall and the end of their power. With a combination of his incompetence and inexperience of being a leader, the reputation he gained amongst his subjects, his neglection towards the people of Russia and his personal beliefs, Nicholas’ presence as Tsar had great effect on the decline of the Romanov dynasty.

His inexperience and lack of political knowledge would prove to be extremely damaging to the state of Russia under his control. At just twelve years old, Nicholas witnessed the assassination of his grandfather, Alexander II. This event implanted fear in him that would carry out into his later years. There was pressure on Nicholas to take on the role after his father Alexander III’s death, on November 1st, 1894. The Romanov’s had ruled over Russia since 1613, and Nicholas would be inheriting an Empire that covered one sixth of the Earth’s land area. At twenty-six years old, Nicholas was left frightened and doubtful regarding his own ability to rule Russia. He was quoted saying, “I am not yet ready to be Tsar. I know nothing of the business of ruling.” It would be this lack of confidence that would inevitably lead to the downfall of the dynasty, as his despair translated into an inability to efficiently use his political control over the Empire and bring success to

Nicholas believed that he had the right to limitless control, and being Tsar in an autocratic government, he truly did have all the power and ability to decide all laws. Nicholas did not use his power accordingly, and didn’t listen to his subjects, who were suffering. He believed that to grant reforms would compromise his power. This belief segregated him from the people, and this distance resulted in the pandemonium of the Russian citizens enduring harsh conditions under his leadership. It also alienated minority groups in Russia at the time, and rendered citizens and other government officials powerless. Several groups in society had disdain for the autocratic government and felt the need for change. As a result, riots, demonstrations and strikes were at an all time high. Because of Nicholas’ firm belief that loyal Russians would never question his dominance, those who protested risked extreme consequences. Events such as Bloody Sunday - a day in 1905 in which protestors putting forward a petition were shot at by brutal soldiers of the Tsar - and Nicholas’ actions following this, shattered Russia’s view of the Tsar and demonstrated the high protest rate. Nicholas attempted to improve the situation by granting the October Manifesto; despite the document describing several liberating promises, Nicholas was not genuine, and the people