Meet Saint Nicholas, the original Father Christmas, and a man capable of miracles. | National Geographic UK

Nicholas II, the last Tsar of Russia, reigned from 1894 to 1917 and sought to modernize the empire through industrial growth and railway expansion. His rule fostered cultural flourishing in arts and literature while maintaining autocratic traditions that unified diverse populations. Despite challenges like the 1905 Revolution, he implemented reforms such as the Duma parliament to address societal needs. His reign ended with abdication in March 1917, forced by the Provisional Government amid Worl