The assassination of Tsar Alexander II of Russia occurred on March 13, 1881. Alexander II was the Emperor of Russia from 1855 until his death and was known for his reforms, which included the abolition of serfdom and the establishment of local self-government.
The assassination plot was hatched by a group of revolutionaries who called themselves the "People's Will." They believed that Alexander II's reforms did not go far enough and that the only way to achieve true reform was through violent revolution.
The group carried out several failed attempts on Alexander's life before finally succeeding on March 1, 1881. The Tsar was on his way to a military review when a bomb was thrown at his carriage. The explosion killed several members of the Tsar's entourage and injured others, including Alexander himself.
Despite his injuries, Alexander II was able to exit the carriage and walk a short distance before collapsing. He was taken to the Winter Palace, where he died a few hours later.
The assassination of Alexander II had a significant impact on Russian history. The subsequent crackdown on revolutionary movements led to increased repression and political instability. Alexander's son and successor, Alexander III, took a hardline approach to political dissent and implemented policies that curtailed civil liberties and freedom of expression.
The assassination also had an impact on international relations. Alexander II had been a key figure in the formation of the League of Three Emperors, an alliance between Russia, Germany, and Austria-Hungary. The alliance was weakened by Alexander's death, and tensions between the three powers increased.
Despite the efforts of the "People's Will," their violent tactics ultimately failed to bring about the change they desired. The assassination of Alexander II stands as a tragic reminder of the dangers of political violence and the importance of peaceful means for achieving social and political change.