Part A-2: Political, Economic and Social problems of Russia in 1894

Part A-2: Political, Economic and Social problems of Russia in 1894

1. Political Problems

   • Elite made up fraction of population; persistent nepotism within government
   • Corruption and bureaucracy were rife within government

2. Economic Problems

   • Industrial growth was almost nil, with Western countires being far ahead of Russia both Industrially and Economically.
   • Largest Industry was Iron; produced in considerable amounts, although inefficiently in the Ural region.
   • Medieval agricultural system was inefficient, yet a key part of the economy.

3. Social Problems

   • Large Divisions between 'Westerners' and 'Slavophiles' since the rule of Peter the Great
   • 80% of Population were considered Peasants
   • Illiteracy blighted 89% of population
   • Although there was a burgeoning textiles industry in Moscow and St Petersberg, conditions for the poor were appauling and big cities showed the evident class divide within Russia.
   • Russian Orthodox Church held great deal of power by asserting Tsar as being the Supreme leader that had been appointed by God.