The Decembrists

The Decembrists were a group of Russian military officers and noblemen who led a failed uprising on December 26, 1825, against the autocratic rule of Tsar Nicholas I. They sought to establish a constitutional government and promote liberal reforms in Russia. Their rebellion was inspired by Enlightenment ideas and the influence of the French Revolution. Despite its failure, the Decembrist Uprising is significant in Russian history, as it marked one of the first movements advocating for political change and inspired future generations of reformers and revolutionaries. The leaders faced severe reprisals, with many executed or exiled.