Internal reforms of Tsar Alexander II in Russia in the 1860s

During the reign of Tsar Alexander II (1855-1881), Russia witnessed a group of important internal reforms, especially in the 1860s, in various fields, the most important of which was the abolition of serfdom, as well as reform of the financial and educational system.
Purpose of the study :
The study aimed to reveal the most important internal reforms carried out by Tsar Alexander II in Russia during the sixties of the nineteenth century, due to lack of studies that dealt with internal reforms in Russia during this important period except for a research entitled Russian internal policy during the era of Tsar Alexander. The second and its results (1855-1881) by researcher Assist Prof.. Haider Sabri Shaker Al-Khiqani, who briefly discussed internal reforms during that specific period.
Study methodology:
In this study, researcher followed the historical research methodology : chronology of reforms.
As for structure of the research, it was divided into three sections and a conclusion. In the first section, entitled (Abolition of Serfdom), researcher discussed reasons that prompted Tsar Alexander II to abolish it according to the decree issued on March 5, 1861, as well as the basic principles of decree. As for the second section, it dealt with (Financial reform), since Crimean War had a tangible impact on the financial situation of Russia. The state budget suffered a hit with a large financial deficit due to spending on military institution during war, which prompted Tsar Alexander II to reform the financial system after he sought help from a number of Russian economists,main taxes were divided into individual and industrial taxes on products, in addition to reduce expenses of army , navy while initiating construction of iron railways, whereas third topic dealt with (educational reform). Educational reform targeted universities , primary and secondary schools. A system was established for primary schools. primary education became free for the first time in Russia.