1825 Decembrist revolt

190 years ago, on December 26, 1825, an armed uprising against the authorities took place in St. Petersburg on Senate Square, organized by members of secret societies, among whom were many guard officers. The rebels demanded that after the death of Alexander I, the throne should be taken by Grand Duke Konstantin Pavlovich, who had previously abdicated in favor of his brother Nicholas. It was supposed to proclaim a constitution with the abolition of serfdom and the introduction of democratic freedoms. However, the senators and most of the regiments managed to swear allegiance to Nicholas before the speech. In addition, Prince Sergei Trubetskoy, who was appointed dictator of the uprising, did not appear on the square, which disorganized the rebels. The uprising was put down by artillery fire. More than 600 people were arrested on the spot.