All times in UTC ·
Dashed edge = started before, or continues beyond, this day
Events on Friday 2 March 1855 2
1796 – 1855Nicholas I of Russia (1796-1855)Died 2 March 1855, aged 58Nicholas I, Tsar of Russia since 1825, died in Saint Petersburg during the Crimean War. His reign had been marked by autocratic rule, suppression of revolts, and territorial expansion. He was succeeded by his son, Alexander II.
1855Alexander II becomes Tsar of RussiaAccession follows the death of Nicholas IAlexander II ascended the Russian throne upon the death of his father, Nicholas I, during the Crimean War. He would go on to pursue major reforms, including the emancipation of the serfs in 1861. His accession came at a low point for Russia militarily, with Sevastopol still under siege.