Pastor Tracy Reads | The Last Tsar: The Abdication of Nicholas II and the Fall of the Romanovs by Tsuyoshi Hasegawa

April 25, 2025 | Pastor Tracy Troxel

For three hundred years, the Romanov Dynasty ruled the Russian Empire. Tsuyoshi Hasegawa traces the last few months of Romanov rule in Russia as Tsar Nicholas II abdicates the throne. The book is fascinating for at least four reasons. First, the narrative moves briskly and clearly despite the plethora of Russian names that can be hard to keep track of initially. But, despite the multiple political games that are being played out simultaneously by different people and their ever-changing approaches, the clarity of the narrative provides the reader with a solid understanding of what is happening.

Second, we see the fragility and transitory nature of political empires and systems. There was a confluence of factors that all came together in a very compressed time that propelled Nicholas to step down as Tsar of Russia. Political stability is not a given for any empire or any country. What you will see is that key leaders in this saga were trying to save the monarchy but ended up unwittingly bringing the monarchy down.

Third, you will see the humanity of Nicholas II as he chooses his family over continuing as Tsar in Russia. Be ready to cry a bit. I know I did.

Finally, there is a strong spiritual element that plays a big part in this narrative. These spiritual elements appear positive in one sense and yet appear to have been harmful for all involved.