His reforms were all extraordinary as they show that Alexander voluntarily allowed the formation of a new intelligentsia. Alexander was perfectly aware of this possibility, but still persisted and implemented all these reforms. Education reforms show Alexander opening himself up to criticism from a newly forged class of educated Russians. If Alexander had wanted to strengthen his grip on power so much, he would not have made such revolutionary reforms that paved the way for new groups of the intelligentsia who would criticize the tsar's rule. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Censorship was also reformed by Alexander, between 1855 and 1863 the strict censorship of Nicholas I's reign was relaxed. There was certainly a climate of cooperation rather than repression, the latter being the case with Nicholas' censorship policy. However, some publications remained banned, the radical magazine The Contemporary was banned, but this was considered reasonable by the public. The economy also needed reforms and Alexander II decided to do so. There were extensive reforms in financial control, taxation, and new sources of revenue were exploited. The annual budgets were also published and the economy was definitely starting to get back on its feet. Alexander II did not have much to gain in terms of strengthening his power over Russia, it was clear that Alexander needed to reform the economy for many other reforms to fully work. Despite the reform of the economy, inflation worsened and the national debt increased due to the Russo-Turkish war. In conclusion, Alexander II was undoubtedly a great reformer. His extensive reforms, which I have talked about, brought Russia out of a previously archaic system. Alexander II also took enormous risks with these reforms. Since his educational reforms were very liberal, he risked coming under fire from the new generation of students created by his reforms, the same happened with the new generation of lawyers created by the legal reforms. This put Alexander's absolute power at risk, but he was still courageous enough to carry out reforms that benefited Russia. Alexander II treated the serfs cruelly in many of his reforms, but he took the first crucial step towards their complete liberation and with it left his mark on Russian society. Please note: this is just an example. Make an article habit now from our expert writers. Get a custom essayLike any monarch, Alexander II was not perfect, but his reforms completely changed the face of Russia and its society, mostly for the better.