Russia 1914 CE
Defeat at the hands of tiny Japan have highlighted the need for change in Russia.
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What is happening in Russia in 1914CE
At home, Russia’s industrial base has been growing at an ever-faster rate. At the same time, the mounting strength of revolutionary movements is signified by the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in 1881. The accession of the conservative Tsar Alexander III (1881-94) leads to the harsh suppression of revolutionary organisations, and policies aimed at the full restoration of autocracy. Alexander’s reign also sees widespread persecution of the Jews. Alexander is succeeded by Tsar Nicholas II (1894-1917).
Russian expansionism in the Far East leads to the Russo-Japanese war of 1904. This is disastrous for Russia, which is defeated by Japanese nerve and technical superiority. The defeat of giant Russia at the hands of tiny Japan is a national humiliation, and is followed by industrial strikes, peasant unrest, and mutinies in the army and navy. Demands for large-scale reform come from all quarters. A parliament, the Duma, is called, but it can only discuss problems, not legislate. The revolutionary activity of 1905 is followed by a period of repression. Under the ministry of Peter Stolypin, some much-needed reforms are carried out, including land reform to aid the newly-freed peasants, and a dramatic expansion of the education system. Stolypin is assassinated in 1911.
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What else is happening in the rest of the world...

France history 750CE
The Kingdom of the Franks now covers all of the old Roman region of Gaul.

Spain and Portugal history 750CE
Muslim forces from North Africa have conquered most of present-day Spain and Portugal.

Britain history 750CE
A collection of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms now covers most of present-day England, and the rest of the British Isles is home to numerous Celtic tribes and kingdoms

Italy history 750CE
In Italy, long wars have caused massive destruction, and the peninsula is now divided between the Lombards and Byzantines
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