The Rule of Nicholas I

The Rule of Nicholas I (1825 – 1855) brought an increased oppression of Old Believers.

In 1830 replying to a memorandum from Governor-General, Baron von der Pahlen, on ‘dissenters’ (Old Believers), Nicholas I ordained: ordered to see to it very carefully that there is no more perversion, and those who are exposed in this, to bring before the court, releasing no one on bail. Take the young, the impoverished and the needy to the kantonists.* Do not allow repairing the existing prayer-houses, investigate how long they could maintain and report’.

* kantonists – pupils of the schools for future military service