Tsarism was a arch-conservative government that had problems in fitting itself into the modern world and coping with its changes. Russia was catching up with the European progress and its economy and society was still very primitive. For Tsar Nicholas to change that it would take time and require knowledge a strong leader has, however the Tsar certainly was not a brilliant leader, what would make things difficult for Monarchy to survive but chances could and should not be ignored.
As advised by his chief advisor Pobiedonotstev (who also became his son Nicholas' tutor) , Tsar Alexander III (1881 - 94) controlled the use of Russian language specially in schools, kept an eye on the educational system, forced conversions to Ortodoxy and dismissed disloyal judges.
Tsarism is a monarchy. In monarchies there are no elections, so the heir to the throne is always the older son, regardless of his interest or ability to reign.…
