Russian Nihilism emerged in the 19th century as a philosophical movement that rejected traditional values and institutions. It was characterized by a belief in the meaninglessness of life and a skepticism towards established norms, including religion and morality. This ideology gained prominence during a time of social upheaval in Russia, particularly among the youth and intellectuals. The term is often associated with the works of writers like Ivan Turgenev, whose novel "Fathers and Sons" depicted the conflict between nihilists and traditionalists. Russian Nihilism influenced various political movements, including anarchism and Marxism, as it questioned the legitimacy of authority and sought radical change in society.