Church reform under Alexander III Flashcards
(10 cards)
What percentage of Russians remained committed to the Russian Orthodox Church during Alexander III’s reign?
70%
How did the Russian Orthodox Church function as a bond between the people and the Tsar?
It acted as a unifying institution that reinforced loyalty to the Tsar.
What was the role of the Holy Synod under Alexander III?
It helped consolidate the Tsar’s power and was more political than religious.
How did priests serve the state during Alexander III’s reign?
They acted as the “eyes and ears” of the state, monitoring the population.
What powers did the Russian Orthodox Church have under Alexander III?
Strict censorship controls and the authority to judge moral and social crimes.
What was the penalty for converting to another religion under Russification?
It was considered a crime.
How many Muslims were forcibly converted to Russian Orthodoxy under Alexander III?
8500
How many pagans were forcibly converted to Russian Orthodoxy during this period?
50,000
How many Catholics and Lutherans were forcibly converted under Alexander III’s policies?
40,000
What was the broader purpose of Alexander III’s church reforms?
To strengthen state control and promote Russification through the Orthodox Church.
