Russia and its rulers 1855–1964

This topic covers the tumultuous period of Russian history from the accession of Alexander II in 1855 to the fall of Khrushchev in 1964. It examines the political, social, and economic transformations under tsarist autocracy, the revolutionary upheavals of 1917, and the establishment and consolidation of Soviet power. Key themes include the struggle for reform versus repression, the impact of war and revolution, and the nature of leadership from Alexander II to Khrushchev.

Understanding this period is crucial because it explains how Russia evolved from a backward autocracy into a superpower, and how the Soviet system was built and later de-Stalinised. The topic also highlights recurring patterns in Russian history, such as the tension between Westernisation and Slavophilism, the role of the state in driving change, and the consequences of rapid industrialisation and collectivisation. These themes resonate in modern Russia and help students grasp the roots of contemporary geopolitical issues.

Within the OCR A-Level specification, this topic is part of the 'Russia and its Rulers' thematic study. It requires students to analyse change and continuity across the period, focusing on key concepts such as authority, ideology, and social transformation. Students must evaluate the impact of different rulers, from the 'Tsar Liberator' to the 'Secret Speech', and assess the extent to which Russia was transformed by 1964.