What role did the Dumas serve in the early 20th century Russian government?

Prepare for the VCE Revolutions Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations to ensure you grasp the key concepts. Ace your exam with confidence!

The Dumas in early 20th century Russia primarily functioned as institutions that had limited authority and were largely symbolic in nature. Established after the 1905 Revolution, the first Duma was convened in 1906 as a response to demands for political reform and greater representation. Although they were designed to appear as governing bodies with legislative functions, their actual power was significantly constrained by the Tsar, who retained the ultimate authority.

The Dumas had the ability to propose legislation and discuss various issues, but any substantial changes or reforms required the approval of the Tsar. This led to consistent conflicts between the Duma and the monarchy, and the Tsar often dismissed Dumas that did not align with his interests. As a result, their effectiveness in implementing policy or enacting meaningful reform was severely limited, making them more of a facade of democracy rather than a genuine legislative body.

Understanding the role of the Dumas within this context clarifies why they were viewed as symbolically important but ultimately lacking in real power to enact significant change in Russian governance during this era.

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