Why Nicholas II abdicated the Russian throne Library of Congress; Russia beyond; Public domain Who and what brought the last Emperor to leaving the throne and why this abdication spelled the end of the Russian monarchy.
On 2 March (Old Style) / 15 March (New Style), 1917, amidst the turmoil of the Russian Revolution, the last Russian Emperor Nicholas II abdicated the Russian throne – in favor of his brother Grand Duke Michael Alexandrovich. The next day the Grand Duke refused to accept the imperial authority. These events ended the power of the House of Romanovs and handed authority to the Provisional Government.
What preceded the abdication?
How the last of the Romanovs became a popular deck of cards (PHOTOS) Archive image/CGACPPD Russian Style playing cards were the most widely used deck of cards in Soviet times. And yet, few people knew that these cards actually depicted members of the Russian imperial family in the splendid costumes they wore to a masquerade ball.
The masquerade ball, which took place in the Winter Palace in 1903, brought together the whole of the country s political elite and was one of the most glamorous and extraordinary parties of its time. All guests were required to wear 17th century historical costumes. Their outfits were indeed spectacular, made from the most expensive fabrics and decorated with family jewels.