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AP Success - AP European History: Tsar Alexander and Abolition of Serfdom

The excerpt is from Tsar Alexander II's proclamation, "The Abolition of Serfdom in Russia," issued on February 19, 1861. Alexander II, who ruled from 1855 until his assassination in 1881, is known for his many reforms, including the emancipation of the serfs, which was one of the most significant events in Russian history.

Source 1

WE, Alexander II... became convinced that the problem of improving the condition of serfs was a sacred inheritance... The nobles... grant the peasants perpetual use of their household plots... and, to assure their livelihood... grant them a portion of arable land... 

While enjoying these land allotments, the peasants are obliged... to fulfill obligations to the noblemen... At the same time, they are granted the right to purchase their household plots... Following such acquisition of full ownership of land, the peasants will be freed from their obligations to the nobles... and will become free peasant landowners...

The authorities... will have to see that this task is accomplished with calmness and regularity... Let them zealously work the soil and harvest its fruits so that they will have a full granary of seeds to return to the soil which will be theirs.

Tsar Alexander II, "The Abolition of Serfdom in Russia," February 19, 1861

Question 1

Short answer

Identify one freedom given to serfs described in the excerpt.

Question 2

Short answer

Describe Tsar Alexander II's likely purpose in abolishing serfdom.

Question 3

Short answer

Explain one way Alexander II's reform efforts were similar to or different from that of his son Alexander III.

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