Magazine issue:
#3 2005 (08)
On June 7 2005 a new statue was unveiled in Moscow - an impressive monument to Tsar Alexander II which stands by the rebuilt Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Known as the "Tsar Liberator", Alexander II abolished serfdom in 1861. As well as helping other Slavic peoples in their struggles against the Ottoman Empire, he undertook a number of radical state reforms. Alexander II was something of a martyr - a noble and conscientious ruler who fell victim to the pressures and limitations facing all monarchs.
On June 7 2005 a new statue was unveiled in Moscow - an impressive monument to Tsar Alexander II which stands by the rebuilt Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.
Known as the "Tsar Liberator", Alexander II abolished serfdom in 1861. As well as helping other Slavic peoples in their struggles against the Ottoman Empire, he undertook a number of radical state reforms. Alexander II was something of a martyr - a noble and conscientious ruler who fell victim to the pressures and limitations facing all monarchs.
