Grand Duke Michael: Brother of the Last Tsar

Nicholas Nicholson, Russian History Museum's Director of Development and Romanov scholar, presents new research from his recent book, co-authored with translator Helen Azar, "Michael Romanov: Brother of the Last Tsar, Diaries and Letters 1916-1918."
---------------------------------------------------------------
Read Nicholson's in-depth answers to audience questions here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/2...
------------------------------------------------------------------
This video was recorded on December 12th, 2020. This program is funded in part by a Humanities New York CARES Grant with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the federal CARES Act.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Donate to the Russian History Museum: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/s...
Here's how you can stay in touch with us!
Join our mailing-list: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/j...
Attend an event: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/e...
Follow our socials @russianhistorymuseum!
Facebook: / russianhistorymuseum
Instagram: / russianhistorymuseum
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Colorized image courtesy of Olga Shirnina.
#Romanov #russianroyals #Romanoff #RussianRevolution

[@Catbirdmom2]

Every time I see photos of this family I am struck at what a gorgeous family they were.

[@d.b.4201]

Me TOO! So strange...

[@colinlyne8688]

And how dreadfully they treated the Russian People, whilst they were grossly rich.

[@jameswilson3991]

@@colinlyne8688 very true linda in scotland

[@stefanevgenii3350]

@@colinlyne8688 listening to German and British propaganda. The Tsar died broke giving all his personal income to widows and children of soldiers that died in the war. He only had 4 million dollars.

[@dinamassoud2875]

I think they are the most good looking compared to other royal families of Europe

[@marycahill546]

Grand Duchess Olga wound up living on a modest farm in Campbellville near Toronto, Canada. The local Russian community in Toronto embraced her. She led a very simple, even poor, life.

[@huascar66]

HIH The Grand Duchess Olga was much loved by the average Russian and the Russian peasantry during the reign of Nicholas II. She was very straightforward and did not allow the strict Court protocols to interfere with her ability to connect with people. Her life in Canada was one of utter simplicity. She was a very remarkable woman.

[@takata98]

You might find this documentary on her life and interesting view! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2G1amWZl9SkqK8

[@pixibelle3282]

Good to know.

[@myroselle6987]

Just a little tidbit...Olga called her brother, Michael, "Floppy".

[@janetneatby6586]

I am currently reading "The last Grand Duchess" the story of Olga, eldest daughter of the czar and czarina. Her aunt Olga spent her last days living in Ontario.

[@Polyanker1]

Grand Duke Michael Alexandrovich -- Emperor Michael II -- is a man every Russian should remember and honor. He tried to warn his brother, Nicholas II, about the oncoming revolution, but Nicholas refused to listen. Michael did everything possible to preserve the monarchy, but the anti-monarchic forces were too strong. His was a tragic tale of love and honor. Maybe if somebody had the radical idea of putting Nicholas aboard an airplane, the situation could have been saved. As it is, the fall of the Romanov Dynasty in 1917 was very much the product of Nicholas II and his wife, Alexandra. Russia could not handle a monarchy without radical change. Had Michael II ascended the throne, things might have gone differently. Pray for Michael and his loyal secretary, Bryan Johnson. May they rest in peace.

[@NataliaVostrikovaSINTEZ]

He was treator!..

[@WildxFlower]

He refused the title when Nicolai was forced to abdicate.

[@Polyanker1]

Paula, I must disagree. Michael’s manifesto of 3/16 March 1917 does not say he is abdicating. What he did was delay becoming Emperor until the Constituent Assembly would express the will of the Russian people. Please recall that Michael Fyodorovich, the ancestor of the Romanovs, was elected to be Czar by a Zemsky Sobor, or assembly of the land in 1613. Michael II could have ascended the throne if he had the army behind him. But alas, the Provisional Government, especially Kerensky, was against Michael II taking the throne.

[@newhorizon4066]

@@Polyanker1 "Michael’s manifesto of 3/16 March 1917 does not say he is abdicating. What he did was delay becoming Emperor until the Constituent Assembly would express the will of the Russian people." This is a text book example of "passive-agressive" behavior. He didn't have the guts to outright say "No I ain't gonna do it!" That would have been better for all concerned, including himself. Time is of utmost urgency in this instance, and here we are doing the ladidah! The royal groupies have one hundred and fifty ways to avoid showing their idol in a harsh light and seeing what pink-colored glasses had done for their objects of worship.

[@khedira19]

If Mikhail had been on the throne, the revolution would most likely not have happened.

[@priscillafilosofia7348]

I’m reading a book right now that goes into great detail about the last Romanovs and in one of the last chapters, Tzar Nicholas relieves himself of the throne of Russia and attempts to pass it on to his son Alexei but revokes it later as his son is ill and won’t survive without his mother or father; he later gives the throne to his brother Michael who later meets at the Russian parliament and the Russian people, already distraught and upset at the autocracy refuse to accept Michael as the Tzar. “With tears in his eyes, Michael comes back and tells us…he refuses the throne”. I feel, that if Michael were to have been given a chance, he would have ruled Russia beautifully. He was humbled by love and seclusion.

[@v.c.2567]

Hi , I am Russian and was so pleased of your lecture! The Bolshevik twist the history a lot, so I was glad to receive this information.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching, VC! Here's a link to more info for our next lecture: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/event/royal-weddings-russia/

[@ronsanchez8149]

@@RussianHistoryMuseum pp

[@colinlyne8688]

@Zeahni B what Communists?

[@chiasanzes9770]

@@colinlyne8688 Troll.

[@corataningco2188]

Bolshevik destroy the Medieval Russian Empire

[@YvonneWilson312]

Grand Duke Michael was such a handsome man. Thank you for this superb lecture. So interesting.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment, Yvonne!

[@baylorsailor]

All of the siblings were very attractive in their youth. The Czar and Czarina had beautiful children too. It's sad that they were destroyed.

[@andrealuisecandido1154]

The Dad of m 2nd DaughTer looks diff. who looks like The GrandDuke M. of Russia? no idea

[@LyricalXilence]

I'll be honest, I prefer Sergei and Sandro.

[@sandrahossman2089]

I hope they find his remains

[@tastx3142]

The lecturer apologized for speaking quickly, but I didn’t find it that way. For people unfamiliar with Russian names pronounced properly, it causes people to try and understand them. Names were posted so it allowed people to see them written in English. Thank you for an interesting presentation with material that I wasn’t familiar with.

[@memc0282]

He speaks fast, but his enunciation is quite clear and easy to understand, and I say this as someone whose english is not his first lenguage

[@adelaidedupont9017]

There is a way to slow it down for people who need it or who would prefer it to be slower.

[@dwee5510]

These events of murdering the Romanov Royal family and their loyal people remain a painful part of history and proof of the dangers of changing society at the whims of a few power hungry evil actors. This was tragic for them, the Russian people and repercussions still can be felt in various parts of the world. This is an excellent report, thank you to the reporters.

[@andyroo9381]

This entire family is all so good looking, handsome and pretty. it is sad that their lives were taken.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Yes, a tragic end for so many of the Romanovs.

[@jitaamesuluma9730]

thank you , yes i think we are too

[@cyrill3000]

We all live in times, when political murder is apparently still committed on a daily basis. Most of the victims remain unknown as they are not regarded as prominent persons. It’s a shame, that mankind has not learned. It makes no sense and doesn’t improve anything. To kill an individual on behalf of the interest of a governmental power is an irreversible crime and reveals the weakness of intelligence and developement to an improvement. Of course, there must have been an inexplicable wrath amongst the people of Russia, who have been suffering in poverty without a realistic perspective to get out, but as far as it seems to me, the last Romanovs can‘t be accused of being vile tyrants. They have been maybe not educated nor well prepared for the tasks, ruling a country and being aware of what is going on beyond their own golden cages. Injustice remains injustice and you can not erase injustice with another one. Corporal punishment and death penalty have never reversed, nor avoided a crime. Oftentimes trials led to failures in the proof. We all have got the chance to get information about so many topics and we should be able to learn how to prevent hatred and inhumanity.

[@floraposteschild4184]

Why that sounds like a good reason; so handsome and pretty. Too bad about all those plain serfs and peasants over the years.

[@peterming]

The Romanovs were naturally handsome strapping men, but the last Tzar and his brothers inherited their enhanced look from their mother, the beautiful Danish princess which also the sister of Britain’s Queen Alexandra. The resemblance between Tzar Nicholas II and King George V is astonishing, they could pass on as twins.

[@karenjaques3937]

Very moving, very sad, very Russian. It always breaks my heart. I have read many books on the Russian Revolution. It never ceases to stir my own emotions. A wave of sorrow and an embankment of tears. Thank you for sharing your lecture. To shake off the strong message I learned to embrace the history of war and revolution. Gettysburg.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching and for your thoughtful comment, Karen. Please join us for more programs: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@oneilbuchanan8377]

Prince Michael of Kent looked so much like King George1 and Tsar Nicholas

[@dmitriypismenyuk7310]

Fantastic Lecture: Perfect for anyone , who loves history and Russia. Very moving, perfect presentation. Thank you

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for this comment, Dmitriy! We hope that you enjoy our lecture content.

[@user-jl7mu3fz7q]

Замечательная семья❤ лучшие люди своего времени! Младший брат монарха, который не пытался отхватить себе кусок власти и влияния у старшего,- это редкость в политике. Ники и Миша были очень хорошо воспитаны своими родителями и стали отличными людьми. Современники Михаила говорили, что он был непреклонен во всем, что касалось норм этики и морали! И кого мы получили взамен этих красавцев-джентельменов с идеальной выправкой? Мы получили многолетний ужас и нескончаемое кровопролитие.... Аж, думать об этом противно...

[@lindalgetty4052]

Very good to hear about the extended family beyond Nicholas & Alexandra

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@mariamargaritagarcia8049]

Fascinating and detailed lecture ! Did not know that much about Michael and Natasha story. What a tragic family ! May all RIP.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching, Maria!

[@andrealuisecandido1154]

no idea whaT you speak of

[@sherryshelton8284]

I must say, first, that I had no problem hearing your lecture. The 'speed' at which you spoke was perfect. Photos shared are a delight.....a most enjoyable presentation. Thank you.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Sherry! So glad you liked the lecture. Hope you'll subscribe to our channel and join us for future monthly lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@NickNicholson1969]

Thank you, Sherry! I'm a native New Yorker, and I tend to go top speed!

[@scotto9591]

It's interesting to me how beautiful the Romanov family was. The women we're stately and gorgeous. The gentlemen were very handsome. That might be due to portraiture, but I think they were naturally good looking people

[@yasasnturkiye2999]

Yeah, Absolutely. They have beautifull genetic

[@RamonaRayTodosSantosBCS]

Goodness hard to believe it took until 2020 to translate these. Especially with so much interest in this family. I am related distantly via the German connection to the royal family. Amazing how they were all related. My great great grandma(?) Wrote about her family and we still have her letter urging her progedy to remember where they came from. My ancestor was princess Anna Juliana Von Boyneberg of Hesse. I am a direct descendant. Curiously I converted to Orthodoxy as a young woman. Thank you for your tireless efforts to continue to allow us to remember where we came from, as my grandmama exhorted us to do.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your kind words, Ramona! Our museum is dedicated to telling the captivating stories of people behind the objects in our collection. Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@wmichaelh29]

You have fascinating heritage.They all could have been saved if England had allowed their entry. I view that as cowardly and cruel.

[@jenniferbolland3352]

@@wmichaelh29 Have you not read or learned about what was going on in England at the time? Things that influenced the decision? The rescue of the Royal hostages was fraught with difficulties. The deaths lie in the hands of the Russian Revolutionary People and those that shot and hacked them to death in that tiny basement. The huge turnaround of the Russian people came much too late, with the Royal Family's official burial so many years later.

[@allisonpayne3359]

I agree there had to be some way for England to get the Russian family out of Russia! Cone on! All the European royals we related. You cannot convince me that they couldnt help this helpless family.

[@marlenehancock9476]

@@jenniferbolland3352 b

[@Alexromanov4297]

Thank you for your dedication too keeping the memories of my family alive.

[@Km944]

Thanks to Nicholas Nicholson and the Russian History Museum for sharing this very interesting lecture! Educational and a fresh angle on tragic historically definitive events

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Km944! Hope you'll join us for future monthly, free lectures. You can register for them on our website: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/category/lectures/

[@johngolden891]

Thanks for the informative lecture. Many do not realize that grim fate suffered by Czar Nicholas, the Czarina and their children was shared by others in the Romanov family. And, for those family members who survived the Revolution, their subsequent life-paths were often challenging,

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you enjoyed the lecture, John! Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future monthly, free lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/category/lectures/

[@scottweaverphotovideo]

I really did not know about him. Tragic history.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you learned something new from our lecture, Scott! Hope you subscribe to our channel and check out future free, online lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@glennsepulveda4856]

Michael was so good looking..he was movie star handsome..

[@SRSM198]

Thank you very much for a very interesting piece of Russian history that I know little of, you spoke very clearly and I followed your story with great interest. Thank you very much

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, SR! Hope you subscribe to our channel and check out future free, online lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@ovalbeach]

My GOD....that is one of the HOTTEST classic pics I have ever seen. DAYYUM!!!

[@helgamihaylova2468]

Concise and well presented material by vastly prepared lecturer. A lecture left space to reflect and to engage in further reading. Thank you for pronouncing Russian names in Russian. It was adorable.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your kind and insightful comment, Helga! We do our best to pronounce Russian names correctly (i.e. without arbitrarily changing the stressed syllable). Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@virginiasoskin9082]

Very good information. I love the way you can pronounce Russian names -- I have read many books on the Romanov family but do not know where the accents go on Russian names. So it's great to hear them and encourages me to say them more rapidly. I have never seen photos of the houses or Michael or Boris. Very good pictures of the family and Natalia as well. For some reason Russia at the turn of the century is endlessly interesting to me; I was hooked when I read Nicholas and Alexandra by Robert Massie back in college in the early 1970s. I also love Russian art, architecture, theater, literature, imperial fashion, jewels, and more. I have been to Petr once for a glorious 8 days around 2015. We saw tremendous museums, sites, palaces, and even a ballet. I only wish the Faberge Museum had been open when we were there. So I continue to learn and watch from afar in my native USA. Thanks for this lecture. I love to learn more and more about Russia. I am GLAD you fit as much information as possible into this lecture.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Virginia, thank you for this comment and your interest in our lecture! We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our upcoming programs: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@dennistitley3788]

So glad I stumbled on this lecture. It was both fascinating and informative. Thank you.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Dennis, you're very welcome! Here is a link to our next lecture: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/event/royal-weddings-russia/. We hope to see you there!

[@uscitizen898]

Very interesting information. My grandfather was Czar Nicolas' army. The photo we have of him in uniform is exactly like those in these photos. Talk of the Revolution...sounds a lot like what's happening now in America...we just haven't gotten to that point yet.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Very interesting! Was your grandfather an officer or a solider?

[@aquarianlight1880]

What are you talking about? As a nation we already had a Revolutionary war and a Civil War

[@yrooxrksvi7142]

@@aquarianlight1880 Clearly you have no understanding or awareness of the social unrest going on as of late in recent years....And I'm not even American.

[@aquarianlight1880]

@@yrooxrksvi7142 yes I do, and I am highly educated, and traveled the world. There has been unrest similar to the 1970's, we had our president assinated JFK and Martin Luther king Jr. was assinated as well. There were constant protest and arrest in that era. But by no means, what is happening now is anything in comparison to our Civil War and Revolutinary war. Stick to your own Country' s History.

[@yrooxrksvi7142]

@@aquarianlight1880 Good for you. But there's still something nasty brewing, between Antifa, BLM, the whole gender theory debacle, and the Capitol occupation of last January, which was just the beginning. The American Revolution and Civil War sprung from different causes, back when the country was still young. These are much larger and scarier problems ahead because they will creep more stealthily. "Stick to your own Country' s History" That's rude. But I'm no mood for pointless arguments, so let's leave it at that.

[@juliancoulden1753]

Absolutely brilliant and fascinating. Thank you so much for such an enthralling presentation, you really brought alive a piece of Russian history of which I was completely unaware.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Julian, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Hope you sign up for other lectures like this one on our website - www.russianhistorymuseum.org.

[@andrealuisecandido1154]

of The Russian HisTory we donT know much- ITs InTeressTing

[@annaarmstrong6956]

Excellent presentation with a wealth of historic details!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Anna! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@susettesantiago5509]

They were beautiful people......this was unforgiveable......these political and military wars are criminal

[@ireneh4552]

Yes . We have Bolshevic Putin in Kremlin now

[@marydonohoe8200]

Michael was evidently enlightened and truly noble, loving and trusting the people to vote in a government of their choice. This has been an eye-opener. Thank you!

[@johndavenport8843]

A good lecture thank you. When we look back on events like this one the things that repeats in history is the failure of those in charge to see how serious the situation is or their inability to overcome it. It is an example and a warning for today.

[@Khangel]

There is one thing we can learn from history: That we never learn from history!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you enjoyed the lecture, John! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@charlesvanderhoog7056]

Exactly, Louis XVI could have saved his life and his monarchy if he simply would have acknowledged the plight of his people and the parliament. Idem Nicolas II could have saved everything if he would have taken the plight of his people to heart. But like Louis XVI, he thought his nobles to be more important. Apart from that, they were of course lied to by endless series of sycophants and freeloaders.

[@faymoore7714]

I wonder, what happened to his son.

[@smitas65]

The contribution of younger children of royalty often goes unnoticed and unrecognised.

[@jorgedominguez1957]

Everyone there were so good looking!

[@evamarek5205]

Well, the Slavs are good looking people in general.

[@catholiccrusader5328]

@@evamarek5205 that they are, one of my kids married one a lovely girl from Romania.

[@ralphl7643]

@@evamarek5205 The later Romanovs were German/Danish because they'd married outside Russia for generations. One reason the Tsarina was hated during WWI.

[@ds1868]

@@evamarek5205 The Romanovs were not Slavs. They were Western European in descent from many generations. Tsar Nicholas II and King George V of the United Kingdom were first cousins. The Romanovs became extinct at the end of the 18th Century, they just carried on the Romanov name through the Danish female line. The correct dynastic name for the Russian Imperial Family is Oldenburg from a Danish-Germanic family.

[@annamack5823]

@@evamarek5205 Selective breeding.

[@raelean]

Where ever I hear of the Russian Royal family I have a strong feeling's of rage and sadness for the tragic lost and murder of the Russian family it's disgusting and shameful act absolutely despicable

[@wmpetroff2307]

I know, Miss. At least they are at peace in comfort with the Heavenly Father.

[@mameux]

Not to be forgotten those Romanoffs had their hands ful of blood,they had been killing the little people for 300 years.

[@rootedandgrounded0911]

I have watched David Lean's "Dr. Zhivago" many times, and because of that I have always been interested in the Russian revolution and the death of Tzar Nicholas and his family. I watch every documentary I find on the Revolution and the Romanov's and this lecture filled some holes in my understanding. Thank you!

[@kroch656]

We are not talking about Romanovs, but Their Imperial Highness's ....

[@here_we_go_again2571]

@ Rootedandgrounded 09 The Bolshivik Revolution was the worst catastophe for the people, both noble and peasant, in the history of of Russia! Lenin, Stalin and their henchmen were indeed "Antichrists" (as much as Hitler, Mao and their ilk) -- Most of 1800's Europe considered Napoleon to be an Antichrist If you want to see a good film about the Bolshevik Revolution watch "Quiet Flows the Don" It is about the fate of the Ukrainian/ Russian Cossacks (it is available on DVD)

[@coralvorster1173]

What a beautiful family they were. Unbelievably hard times they had to go through.

[@Steampunksaly]

Not sure how their physical appearance relates to their appalling murder

[@IRosamelia]

Oh gosh he was *BEAUTIFUL!!!*

[@henryphilipvige777]

It is heartbreaking what happened to the Russian royal family!! Thank you for sharing this information.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment, Henry! Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@henryphilipvige777]

@@RussianHistoryMuseum Yes, I am subscribed and I also signed up by email too. Thank you!

[@Aussiemarco]

Thank you for this incredibly interesting piece of history that is unknown to the West. And very well told, you are a great storyteller, sir.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment! So glad you enjoyed the lecture. Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future online lectures and events: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@benjaminfranzuela5847]

Very informative; interesting and detailed. It also felt thrilling every time you’d mention dates and times. Thank you for sharing.

[@leslielutz1874]

THIS WAS OUTSTANDING. THANK YOU.

[@marinaknife4595]

Thank you for the uploading of this video full of important & detailed history - *Such a tragic end to the dynasty - horrifying - chilling.The mode and manner with which the family was treated is A GREAT SIN* & AN OMINOUS WARNING TO EVERYONE WORLDWIDE. MAY GOD BLESS & PROTECT RUSSIA & HER PEOPLES.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your kin comment, Marina! Glad you enjoyed the lecture. Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@banan_9672]

The whole story of the Romanovs has never sat well with me. The eradication of an entire imperial family is just insane.

[@bostonblackie9503]

The starvation of a nation is insane!

[@banan_9672]

@@bostonblackie9503 equally disgraceful and tragic nonetheless

[@jenniferbolland3352]

War is insane. Power hungry individuals are insane. There's nothing new under the sun, nor will there ever be. Same old same old century after century until we implode.

[@vivianpercy7580]

They were subjected to the most horrible death of vicious murderers, who butchered even the children.

[@ultron374]

The family was killed because it was the last absolute monarchy in Europe. Nicholas II was also useless ruler, detached from reality. While people were starving, he organised masquerade balls in his castles. Certainly the whole family didn't deserve to die.

[@miradjurdjevdan]

The topic of Grand Duke Michael is truly fascinating - I knew so little about him. I will definitely pick this book up to add to my growing collection on the Romanov’s.

[@sandrapicton8961]

Wonderful lecture, so informative, thank you.

[@Laurenteamec]

So horrendous what happened to him and Johnson and to think their remains have never been found.

[@sandyhossman7771]

They are looking for GD Michael and his secretary now. The American team that found the last 2 bodies, Alexis and Marie or Anastasia

[@deborahmcgee7970]

@@sandyhossman7771 I hope they find them please God they will

[@exaudi33]

If only he had been born first; or the terrified, weak Nicky had abdicated when their father died. The course of the 20th century might have been changed (for the better).

[@theresanault5219]

Your facts are not correct. Nicky was Tsar for over a decade after his father died. If you study the information this site and a few others offer, you will learn he was not weak. A weak leader would never be at the frontline with his soldiers. that is one of many examples. He was manipulated and truly felt he was doing what was best for Russia!

[@StevenTorrey]

Sometimes the force of history is such, that individual weakness/strength becomes irrelevant. Historians generally describe Nicholas as simply being in over his head, not weak.

[@d.b.4201]

@@theresanault5219 Thank you for saying this. I have always been interested in the Royal family however, I have just started reading & watching to study in earnest. Showing particular interest in Nicky. With special interest in the love letters he exchanged with his wife. When Im listening to something, I am always cautious because those presenting, may put their own personal feelings in. Even if not intending to do so, even a narrator may interject a tone of indifference. Ive just started learning about them but as soon as I saw the post about him being soft, I thought to myself, "Wait! He DID go to the front lines & certainly did not have to!" Anyway, thank you for sharing your thoughts. Any more info on this will be appreciated.

[@theresanault5219]

@@d.b.4201 my journey with the family began with an A&E documentary, "The LAst Russian Tsar. Until that time I assumed what I learned in school was true about Bloody Niki and the Empress was a lover of Rasputin. Decades later I read Robert Massie's Helen Rappaport books. I ordered the following books that I linked below written by two insiders. T here is also a book on the discovery of the Romonvos burial place. The title slips my memory. The last book I read was "The Holy Royal Martyrs." well worth the money and the read. with beautiful images. The progression of my interest developed into a devotion to the family. I am Roman Catholic, not Russian Orthodox, but I have no doubt whatsoever they are powerful intercessors. Nicholas could not have been a weak timid man. He was at the front lines with the soldiers plus he had his son with him at the front. He was a strong man even during captivity. He was decent and respectful but not timid towards his captors. I hope you enjoy your journey with the family as much as I enjoy mine. www.amazon.com/Thirteen-Years-Russian-Court-Personal/dp/1519085923 www.alexanderpalace.org/russiancourt/XIII.html

[@d.b.4201]

@@theresanault5219 Thank you so much! Just for taking time to write me back is very kind of you. I certainly will take yr advice & look that up. Thanks again & God bless. 👍

[@NotwendyM]

I loved this presentation! Well done

[@robyncarter5135]

Great lecture and accompanying pictures. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Robyn! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@terrybardy2848]

He had nice eyes! It's horrible what happened to him.

[@AllansStation]

Fascinating insight into the last days of the Romanovs.

[@lindakachur4862]

It's all a bunch of lies. The Royal Families did a bang up propaganda project if white washing their evils throughout history. Consider yourself firmly brained washed or a participant of these 'projects' of deception. They are Satanist and Satan is the father of lies.

[@d.b.4201]

Thank you so much for posting!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, D.B.! You are very kind! So glad you liked the lecture. Hope you'll subscribe to our channel and join us for future monthly lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@coralvorster1173]

You are speaking very clearly & it's a pleasure listening to you. Very interesting information about the Romonovs

[@NickNicholson1969]

Thank you!

[@antonfarquar8799]

Count Witte was mentioned briefly in this dissertation - It was he who warned Nicolas II not to get into this war . The French and the British promised Nicolas that they would all be in Berlin by Christmas. This is so tragic - my stomach was in knots listening to this excellent history.

[@brunopadovani7347]

And in the end, WW1 gave us international communism and WW2.

[@antonfarquar8799]

@@brunopadovani7347 Good Sir, you are totally correct !!!

[@Domhangairt]

anton farquar. Count Witte wasn't the only high ranking official to warn Nicholas about war against Germany. The Emperor was warned in a letter from the head of the Okhrana, the state security police, that his enemies in Russia would use the war against Germany to try to topple the monarchy. But it must be remembered that it was Germany who declared war on Russia, not the other way around. The Empress's guru, Grigory Rasputin also warned the Emperor that the war would be disastrous for Russia and the monarchy- he as right! While Nicholas was loyal to his Allies, they were not loyal to him. In fact the Americans favoured the removal of the Romanov dynasty and the break-up of the Russian Empire. This factor is hardly mentioned in most history books.

[@d.b.4201]

@@Domhangairt Now days, the youngsters have tried to & succeeded in a lot of ways to put their on spin on history & have even changed the truth of it. The only way to find it is listen to our Elder's who lived it when possible & find written OLD testimonies & Original text books! Today, they leave out MUCH or LIE!!

[@vickeydonoho8234]

@@Domhangairt Might need to remember Germany came to the aid of their ally TOO or were they not allowed? Russia should have told Serbia you are on your own . You think maybe if the assassination of Arch Duke Ferdinand & his wife Sophia had not of happen we may not have had a ww1? or even 2 .As I believe WW2 was a direct result of WW1 because of the oppressive terms put on Germany along with them forced to claim fault , they didn't assassinate anyone .You don't kick a dog when it's dog it may bite . Remember 1) Serb nationalist assassinated Arch Duke 2)Austria declared war on Serbia 3) Russia gets pulled in as it's a ally to Serbia 4) Germany ally to Austria 5) France & England allies to Russia so join in . Guess we would just sit on our hands if some other country killed the leader of a ally country or how about if someone from another country murder our president you would expect us to do nothing? I don't believe Nicholas was a very wise ruler but looking at what we got today we have none, you will never make everyone happy even when they are elected .And it's just me but I think he was still better then what the Russian ppl got after with Lenin & Stalin. And this is a factor ppl seem to forget they rather forget Germany didn't start WW1 just 2.And look at Russia today mounting tropes at the Ukrainian border .

[@gerardmackay8909]

Louis Mountbatten met Maria Romanov in England when he was 13 and she was 14 and her beauty and sweetness mesmerised him. When asked a few years later what hopes he had for his future he replied ‘I don’t really know what I want to do apart from marry Maria Romanov’ When she was murdered at 19 he was devastated and for the next 60 years right up until his own tragic murder he kept a photograph of her on his bedside table. Members of that family were all beautiful but Maria astonishingly so and the kindest gentlest of souls too.

[@gretahassock8914]

I still feel they didn't see the writing on the wall otherwise they could have found some excuse and escaped whether it was a holiday or going to see family

[@gerardmackay8909]

@@gretahassock8914 but we have to avoid using hindsight. Anti Romanov sentiment was running high in a Europe where monarchies by 1917 were constitutional and the czar’s regime was seen as tyrannical. The UK initially offered asylum in March 1917 but Lloyd George and the king himself (Nicky’s cousin and lifelong close friend) felt revolutionary sentiment may threaten them too so the offer was withdrawn. Finally Nicholas underestimated the threat from Lenin and the Bolsheviks and by the time he was aware of his peril he was well and truly their prisoner.

[@gretahassock8914]

What a shame they didn't get asylum in the uk@@gerardmackay8909

[@SymphonyBrahms]

@@gretahassock8914 After Nicholas abdicated he and his family were immediately arrested. They were heavily guarded. The revolutionaries controlled the roads and the railways. There was no way for them to escape. His mother and sisters were in the Crimea on the Black Sea in southern Ukraine. They were rescued before the Bolsheviks could arrest them. The Bolsheviks were killing any Romanovs that they could find.

[@SymphonyBrahms]

@@gretahassock8914 King George and Prime Minister Lloyd George were prevented by the British Parliament from bringing the Romanovs to England. And the elected British Parliament has all the power in England, not the king or queen.

[@patobrien6364]

Such a well researched and scripted video. It's truly incredible and i enjoyed it so much. The detail and photographic illustrations are so helpful. Chapeau Monsieur 👏👏

[@Wataosa]

Brilliant! Fast but well articulated and easy to follow. Wow. 👍

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching! Be sure to check out our website for more fantastic programs: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@asherrubinford21]

I really enjoyed this lecture. Thank you.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you enjoyed the lecture, Asher! Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future monthly, free lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/category/lectures/

[@terrimabrey93]

This was Awesome! I'll check you out on KZbin often now!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Terri! If you're looking for more interesting stories, check out our recent post related to Princess Vera Konstantinovna: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/2021/01/11/princess-vera-konstantinovna-of-russia-princess-patron-presence/

[@dafinker3443]

Sons of my favourite books in the world MICHAEL AND NATASHA !!!!!

[@gix2lee]

Your voice is pleasant and you speak very clearly that I didn’t even notice you were talking fast until you mentioned it. Actually, I didn’t feel that you were talking fast. You were easy to follow. Thank you.

[@madhami100]

Thank you for this presentation. I really enjoyed every bit .

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching, Mo! Keep up to date with our current programs by visiting our website: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@Carol-D.1324]

I enjoyed this lecture so very much. Thank you (I hated for it to end)!!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Cari! Check out our website for more lecture events: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@SuperSunshinesue]

Thank you. Great lecture.

[@angelanoble3050]

Nick Nicholson was very good in his research and lectures. Learnt so much of this lesser known part of the imperial Russian history - I feel totally intrigued. Thank you

[@NickNicholson1969]

Thank you!

[@lancemumford3106]

Thank you for the most informative video. I knew so little before I watched this.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

So glad you enjoyed the lecture and learned something new! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@boomerang_911]

I feel a cold stone in my heart as I listened to this history. The revolution sounds so much like what is going on in America this very moment. I hate the platitude "history repeats itself" but every history lesson I hear makes it seem as if it is true. Who will now die at the hands of America's revolution?

[@toddbonin6926]

I’ve been saying it for two years. As a student of Russian history I can see 1918 all over again. 😢

[@peggyt1243]

The election was stolen. It was a coup by mail and computer.

[@SymphonyBrahms]

@@peggyt1243 The election was not stolen. You are gullible and are believe the lies by would be dictator Trump. He admires Putin and would like to be a dictator as well. Wake up and smell the coffee!

[@SymphonyBrahms]

The revolution in America is being promoted by the right wing thugs that invaded our capitol building. The thugs and killers that Trump supports.

[@sandriagutierrez2605]

Really enjoyed this lecture! Mr. Nicholson Did an excellent job at keeping me engaged. Thank you

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

We really appreciate your feedback, Sandria! Thank you for watching.

[@esgiereyes5082]

I really enjoy watching your videos, it's comprehensive, engaging and Informative. More power and hoping for post about the Yusoppovs and their jewels and palaces!

[@MrOilpainter]

That was a fascinating lecture. Thank you.

[@NickNicholson1969]

Thank you so much!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching, Peter! We hope you will check out our website for even more engaging lecture content: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@salesuzi]

You were fantastic. Speed was perfect very interesting

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Suzi! So glad you enjoyed the lecture. Check out our website, russianhistorymuseum.org, to join in on other lectures like this - every second Saturday of the month.

[@cmmarsden]

Thank you very much for this valuable information.

[@christiebergin6052]

Excellent presentation.

[@vivians9392]

A very handsome man. Interesting narrative.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment, Vivian! So glad you enjoyed the lecture. Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future online lectures and events: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@esterherschkovich6499]

Thank you..very interesting 👌

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Stella, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Hope you sign up for other lectures like this one on our website - www.russianhistorymuseum.org.

[@Huy_Nguyen_USA]

The pacing of this presentation was perfect.

[@firestone61]

I am revising a historical novel ALEXEI and RASPUTIN and administer the facebook group Alexei Romanov: The Last Tsarevich. Mr. Nicholson is a member. Was very impressed with the lecture.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment, Greer! Glad you enjoyed the lecture. Hope you subscribe to our channel and join us for future lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@meeeka]

Thank heavens! FINALLY!! Work on Michael, whose life really has deserved a second and third look. And THANK YOU so very much for your excellent lecture.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Michelle, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Hope you sign up for other lectures like this one on our website - www.russianhistorymuseum.org.

[@gregoryambres1897]

Most fascinating, charming, and (of course), tragic story.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Gregory, we appreciate your comment!

[@sheilastockdale6715]

I downloaded your book. I’m reading it slowly so I can savor every bit of it. Excellent lecture!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for watching, Sheila!

[@atmoms2]

Excellent, thank you!

[@lindahedman3115]

Marvelous and interesting lecture.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

So nice of you, Linda! Glad you liked the lecture. Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@umsoto100]

Wry much enjoyed this video. Very interesting, never knew some of this info.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you enjoyed it! Check out our upcoming lectures here: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@darrenkerr6355]

Very interesting and enjoyable lecture. Presentation was good and easy to follow. More please.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Darren, thank you for your comment! Check out our website for the latest lecture announcements: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@toddbonin6926]

Absolutely brilliant and fascinating lecture, yet such a sad story.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Todd! Hope you subscribed to our channel and that you'll join us for future lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/category/lectures/

[@toddbonin6926]

@@RussianHistoryMuseum yes indeed, I am subscribed. I look forward to your lectures.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

@@toddbonin6926 Fantastic!

[@karenokeane6461]

Engaging and informative. Thank you.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Karen!

[@Jerseyboondocks]

I really enjoyed this very much and I do not think you talked to fast at all. Thank you so much for your presentation on the Grand Duke Michael and all your other work.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Glad you enjoyed it, Aileen (and kept up with the quick pace)! We hope you'll sing up for our email list and join us for future lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/join-mailing-list/

[@pitchy237]

I have always interested in the Russian history, thank you for your lecture..👍👏

[@suzukibn1131]

Very interesting. Thank you.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you, Ellen, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Hope you sign up for other lectures like this one on our website - www.russianhistorymuseum.org.

[@janetsmith5279]

I have loved this lecture. Im now subscribed

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for your comment, Janet! So glad you enjoyed the lecture and subscribed to our channel. Please join us for future online lectures and events: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/

[@davidvanniekerk356]

Dankie/ Merci Russian History Museum. The video was very educational. Thx.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks for watching, David!

[@jetlagrob]

What an amazing lecturer. It would be an honour to know this professor of turn of the century Russian history‼️ The entire family were great photographers with their Kodak cameras just as we are fascinated by our smart phones.

[@NickNicholson1969]

Thank you! Hope you keep watching our lectures!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Rob, thank you for these kind words! Here is a link to view other Second Saturday lecture related content on our website: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/category/second-saturdays/

[@2059daneo]

He is Stunningly Beautiful, One of the most handsome men I have ever seen!

[@mikew4944]

Wonderfully detailed and researched!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks, Mike, glad you enjoyed the lecture! Hope you sign up for other lectures like this one on our website - www.russianhistorymuseum.org.

[@gowanhewlett745]

An excellent presentation with conviction and knowledge.l heard every word despite my being slightly deaf. Congratulations.

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thank you for this feedback, Gowan!

[@inganoerke5172]

Fascinating character, it strikes me as much more capable overall than his brother in many aspects , although clearly lacking in commitment in many others. I just discovered this channel !!

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

Thanks for you comment, Inga - glad you enjoyed the lecture. Hope you subscribed to our channel - it's what all the cool kids are doing.

[@cookla3050]

Beautiful family is best to describe them

[@RussianHistoryMuseum]

We agree, Carol! So glad you liked the lecture. Hope you'll subscribe to our channel and join us for future monthly lectures: www.russianhistorymuseum.org/events/