The Romanov legacy

The Romanov legacy refers to the impact of Russia’s last imperial family, the Romanovs, who ruled from 1613 until 1917. They symbolize both the grandeur and eventual decline of Russia’s monarchy, culminating in their abdication and the Bolshevik Revolution. Their tragic end—mass executions in 1918—marked the end of centuries of autocratic rule and prompted reflection on monarchy, power, and reform. Today, the Romanovs remain significant as historical figures, with their image intertwined with Russia’s cultural identity, the country’s turbulent political history, and ongoing debates about monarchy and heritage.