Emancipation Reform
The Emancipation Reform refers to a series of changes in the 19th century aimed at abolishing serfdom in various countries, most notably in Russia. The most significant reform occurred in 1861 when Tsar Alexander II issued the Emancipation Manifesto, which freed millions of serfs and granted them personal rights. This reform aimed to modernize the economy and improve social conditions.
The reform allowed former serfs to own land, although they often faced financial difficulties due to high redemption payments. While it marked a significant step towards social equality, the implementation was uneven, and many former serfs remained in poverty, leading to ongoing social challenges in Russia.