The Decembrist Revolt

A short-lived attempt by liberal Russian officers to prevent Nicholas I from taking the throne and to introduce reform.

Background

Many young Russian officers had served in the campaigns against Napoleon and seen life in western Europe. Back home they found serfdom and autocracy unchanged, and secret societies formed to discuss a constitution and the abolition of serfdom.

Course of events

When Alexander I died in late 1825 and confusion arose over the succession, some officers led about three thousand soldiers onto Senate Square in St Petersburg on 14 December. The rising lacked a clear plan and was dispersed by loyal troops the same day.

Legacy

Five leaders were executed and many others were exiled to Siberia. Nicholas I's reign became markedly repressive, yet the Decembrists became revered by later generations of Russian reformers and writers.