title: HISTORY OF RUSSIAN REVOLUTION: ABDICATION OF TSAR OR REVOLT OF THE MASES?
abstract: The article shows that in 1917 it was the internal turmoil due to which the tsarist regime collapsed so fast. The crucial role was played by the common idea of the complete incapacity of Nicholas II. The image of the weak power was reinforced by all sorts of rumours about Rasputin&rsquo;s influence on the government decision-making, his intimate relations with the Empress, and finally, the actions of the authorities in &ldquo;the interests of Germany.&rdquo; On the eve of the revolution Russia w
journal: RUDN Journal of Russian History