How did the Baku Oil Industry Grew Under Tsarist Russia?

Baku oil fed the Azerbaijan economy today as it did before when it fed the Russian imperial economy. Explore how the oil industry in one of the oil rich cities in the world began and grow under the Russian Empire.

Nicholas I and Russia's First Railroads

Russia is a huge country sometimes resistant of change, even new technologies, like railroad, had numerous skeptics until the Tsar himself approved its construction. Explore how Tsar Nicholas I oversaw the construction of Russia’s first railroads.

Who were Russia's Benevolent Despots? (Part 3): Alexander II

With a confusion following the death of Tsar Alexander I, threats to the absolute power of the Romanovs emerged. It failed resulting to three decades of reactionary policies – only to conclude with the rise of the Tsar Liberator. Explore how Alexander II became a Benevolent Despot and became known as the Tsar Liberator.

Who were Russia's Benevolent Despots? (Part 2): Alexander I

With the death of Catherine, his grandson followed in her footstep in ruling as a Benevolent Despot. Explore how Alexander I ruled Russia as a absolute yet enlightened autocrat.

Who were Russia's Benevolent Despots? (Part 1): Catherine the Great

In 1762, Russia had a new ruler, a German Princess who rose up to the position of Tsar and autocrat. Her rule espoused a new type of leadership – Benevolent absolutism – which became the model of future Romanovs. Explore the reign of Russia’s benevolent despots with Catherine the Great as the first to embrace it.

What was the Decembrist Revolt? (Part 2)

With the death of Tsar Alexander I and all of Europe rattled by liberal-inspired movements, the Northern Society prepared to make their own. But how would their plan, so quickly conceived, work out?

What was the Decembrist Revolt? (Part 1)

Autocracy ruled in Russia under the command of the Romanov Tsars for centuries. But in the 19th century was a century of change and Russia was no immune. Explore how a pursuit of change led to revolt of men called the Decembrist.