What happened to the Duma after the 1905 Revolution?

• A. It was created but had limited powers and autocracy persisted.
• B. It became sole ruler.
• C. It dissolved the monarchy.
• D. It never convened.

Answer: (A)

After the 1905 Revolution, the Tsar granted a legislative body—the Duma—through the October Manifesto, signaling a move toward limited constitutional reform. But the Duma’s powers were constrained from the start: it could debate and propose laws, yet the Tsar and his ministers retained real control, and the government could issue decrees or dissolve the Duma. The 1906 Fundamental Laws then solidified that framework, affirming the Tsar’s supremacy and limiting the Duma’s authority. So the Duma existed as a parliamentary body, yet autocratic rule continued in practice, rather than replacing the monarchy or becoming the sole ruler.