Fall of an Empire: Russia 1917

Throughout history, empires have shaped the world’s nations, peoples, and social structures. These empires' successes and failures have also offered valuable blueprints about leadership and governance for countries today. In this committee, delegates will focus on the fall of the Russian Empire as they confront the challenges of the empire’s final decades.

By the end of the 19th century, the Russian Empire has entered a state of crisis. Economic downturn, social protests, and government corruption threatens the stability of the Russian government. Nicholas II has also been recently crowned as the new Tsar of Russia. A member of the House of Romanov, which has ruled Russia for nearly three centuries, Nicholas inherits an empire facing increasingly difficult challenges despite having little experience himself. When Nicholas II is not traveling abroad or engaging in personal interests like getting a dragon tattoo, his leadership is often summarized by a quote from one of his government ministers, who describes him as “unfit to run a village post office.”

In "Fall of an Empire: Russia 1917," delegates assume the roles of royal advisors in 1896, becoming some of the most influential figures in the government. The goal of our advisors will be to fight against the Russian Empire's many social, economic, and political problems in an attempt to save the empire from its historical fate. In addition, delegates must appease the inexperienced Tsar Nicholas II to adopt their proposed policies, as failure to secure his approval may result in dissent from the throne and hinder their plans. What fate awaits the Russian Empire under the guidance of our advisors by 1917: a historical collapse or salvation?