The Fundamental Laws 1906

What were the Fundamental Laws?

Tsar Nicholas II set out his political reforms in the Fundamental Laws.

When were the Fundamental Laws made?

The Fundamental Laws were published in April 1906.

Why did Nicholas II pass the Fundamental Laws?

Tsar Nicholas II published the Fundamental Laws to reestablish his control over the country after the 1905 Revolution forced him to make compromises in the October Manifesto.

What did the Fundamental Laws state?

There were 6 key features of the Fundamental Laws:

• ❖ The establishment of the Duma, which was made up of about 500 delegates, and details of how they would contribute to making laws.
• ❖ The tsar could close the Duma at any point.
• ❖ The tsar could change the electoral system.
• ❖ The Duma's powers would be limited by the creation of an upper house called the Imperial State Council. The tsar would select half its members.
• ❖ The tsar could veto any law the Duma passed.
• ❖ The tsar could pass any laws he wanted when the Duma was not in session.

What was the result of Nicholas II passing the Fundamental Laws?

The result of Nicholas II passing the Fundamental Laws was that the powers of the Duma were limited and he was back in control.