Николай I

One of the most complete and detailed biographies of the Russian Tsar Nicholas the First (1796-1855). Writing biographies of the Russian Romanovs is a real challenge, because many of them closed their personal archives and destroyed valuable documents which could compromise them or their predecessors. Nicholas I was no exception to this rule. His reign began with the famous rebellion of officers in the Senate square, who demanded his abdication by signing the Manifesto to the Russian People. The Decembrists uprising was put down, and the Tsar acquired a reputation as an oppressor. However, his real character as a person and statesman was more complex; he had many real virtues and brought many positive changes that were appreciated by many of his contemporaries. Sources and bibliographical references (pp. 616-676). Chronology of Nicholas's life.