Revolutions of 1917 Following the tsar’s abdication, a provisional government was set up to run affairs before a constituent assembly could be elected. Why did this government fail to live up to its promises and how did a fringe party, the Bolsheviks, rise to power? Sources

Road to 1917 The First World War proved to be the tipping point for Nicholas II. In this episode we highlight some of the key problems Russia faced during this conflict and the events that led to the tsar’s abdication. Sources

Russo-Japanese War and 1905 Revolution It was evident that Nicholas II was not prepared to become tsar of Russia. Learn about the events that nearly ended his rule and how he managed to stay in power. The basic outline of these events will be discussed as well as the role played by Peter Stolypin. Sources

Alexander III and Nicholas II The quasi-liberal reforms implemented by Alexander II would be scaled back by his son, Alexander III. Discover why Alexander III took a conservative turn and the role played by Sergei Witte. We end the episode with an introduction on his successor, Nicholas II. Sources

Setting and Alexander II In this episode we outline some background information on the imperial Russian state. Learn about the different roles played by various Russian rulers and how they shaped the society that Alexander II inherited. His key policies, such as the emancipation of the serfs, will be discussed in this episode. Sources

Foreign Policy and Review The balance of power had greatly shifted and Bismarck needed to maneuver carefully in order to safeguard Germany’s future. This episode will cover key foreign policies and review the role played by the Chancellor.   Sources

Kulturkampf and Anti-Socialist Campaigns Some of Bismarck’s biggest domestic rivals included the Catholics and Socialists. Discover why he didn’t get along with them and whether or not his campaigns were successful. Sources

New Germany Domestic Policies Learn about the policies that helped propel Germany to become a European powerhouse. It wasn’t easy, as Bismarck faced stiff opposition from the parliamentary legislature. Sources

Bismarck and Unification Otto von Bismarck was the chief architect of the unification of Germany. Learn about the steps he took, including his defeat of France, to realise the new nation. Sources

Genesis of Germany This episode will look into the background of the German states following the 1815 Congress of Vienna. Why was Prussia in a better position than Austria? Find out here. Sources