Extent and Impact of Counter-reform

• Although Alexander III's policies helped to reverse the trends set in motion by his father, not all of Alexander II's reforms disappeared and there was some positive change
• In May 1881, a law reduced the redemption fees payable and cancelled the debts of ex-serfs In May 1885, the poll tax was abolished and the introduction of inheritance tax helped to shift the burden of taxation a little, away from the lowest classes.
• Other reforms included the introduction of the right of appeal to higher courts (after trial before the Land Captian) establishment of the Peasant's Land Bank (helped peasants buy their own farms) in 1883 and some reformist factory legislation.