Summary

• The backward Russian economy began to develop after defeat in the Crimean war and emanctipation
• The state played an active role in promoting industry. Financial policies and the encouragement of overseas investment and expertise were crucial
• The peasantry was forced to support industrialisation by the drive to export grain and an increase in indirect taxation
• Railway development was a crucial first step and in addition to traditional texties, heavy industry and oil grew more important
• Emancipation and industrialistion also brought social change affecting landowners, the growing middle class, expanding the ranks of urban workers and causing greater social division in the countryside
• Throughout this period the Orthodox Church maintained a strong cultural influence and was used by the State to help keep the population under control