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Dynasty: IGCSE History Definition

Zoe Wade

Written by: Zoe Wade

Reviewed by: Natasha Smith

Published

Last updated

Contents

  1. 1. What is a dynasty?
  2. 2. Dynasty Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

What is a dynasty?


In IGCSE History, a dynasty is a ruling family that holds power over a country for multiple generations, often passing leadership from one monarch to the next.

One significant example is the Romanov Dynasty, which ruled Russia from 1613 until its downfall in 1917.

Illustration of Tsar Nicholas II with flowchart describing traits: pious, autocratic, believed in divine right, and hated change, with related points.
A diagram showing the key characteristics of Nicholas II, the last Tsar in the Romanov Dynasty

The last Romanov ruler, Tsar Nicholas II, faced increasing unrest due to poor governance, economic difficulties, and military failures. His handling of the 1905 Revolution led to limited reforms like the Duma (parliament), but he later weakened its power, angering reformers. 

During World War I, Russia suffered heavy defeats, food shortages, and rising discontent. Nicholas’s decision to take personal command of the army in 1915 left the government under the influence of the unpopular Tsarina Alexandra and Rasputin, further damaging public trust. 

By 1917, mass protests, strikes, and the loss of military support forced Nicholas to abdicate. This ended over 300 years of Romanov rule and led to the Russian Revolution.

Dynasty Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Tsarist Russia by 1905 | Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE History Revision Notes 2018

How Did the Tsar Survive the 1905 Revolution - IGCSE History

The Collapse Of The Tsarist Regime In 1917 - IGCSE History

Explore IGCSE History Revision Resources

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Author
Reviewer
Zoe Wade

Author: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

Natasha Smith

Author: Natasha Smith

Expertise: History Content Creator

After graduating with a degree in history, Natasha gained her PGCE at Keele University. With more than 10 years of teaching experience, Natasha taught history at both GCSE and A Level. Natasha's specialism is modern world history. As an educator, Natasha channels this passion into her work, aiming to instil in students the same love for history that has fuelled her own curiosity.

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