Why King George V Did Not Help Tsar Nicholas II

The decision by King George V not to help Tsar Nicholas II during the tumultuous period of the Russian Revolution in 1917 was deeply rooted in political strategy, public opinion, and the complex relationships within royal families.

The Political Climate and Public Perception

Tarshis (2019) highlights that Tsar Nicholas II was not a well-loved figure in the United Kingdom. His reputation was marred by the perception of despotism, which was exacerbated by reports of Siberian gulags and his violent suppression of unrest in 1905. The defeat of Russia by Japan in 1905 further tarnished his image. As a result, any public move to save Tsar Nicholas would have faced significant opposition, undermining the stability of the British monarchy.

The British Context and Royal Connections

The British monarchy's decision was further complicated by its close familial ties with both the Russian and German royal families. George V recognized the sensitivity of these relationships, noting that any association with Tsar Nicholas could provoke unrest among the British public, similar to the Easter Rising in Ireland. The decision to rename the royal family from Saxe-Coburg-Gotha to Windsor in 1917 was a direct response to this problem.

The Role of the British Government

The British government's response to the situation was weighed carefully. The Labour Party and many Liberals vehemently objected to offering asylum to the Romanovs. Sir George Buchanan, the British ambassador, advised that the presence of the ex-Tsar could exacerbate left-wing sentiments. Even the Liberal Prime Minister, David Lloyd George, preferred that the Romanovs go to a neutral country.

Withdrawal of the Asylum Offer

The offer of asylum was withdrawn in April 1917 due to strong objections from King George V. Acting on the advice of his secretary, Arthur Bigge, 1st Baron Stamfordham, George V was concerned that Nicholas's presence could lead to an uprising. The Russian government's approach to the British government in early summer of 1917 also found no viable solution due to internal political considerations.

Post-Revolutionary Dynamics and Theoretical Escapes

Even after Tsar Nicholas’s deposition and the withdrawal of Russia from World War I, the 'Russian problem' persisted. The British government's decision-making was driven by the need to prevent any association with Nicholas, a man they saw as a threat to the constitutional monarchy and the peace. Despite theoretical discussions about naval rescues of Russian royals, the overriding objective was to avoid tainting the British Crown by associating it with Nicholas.

Conclusion

In summary, King George V and the British government's decision not to help Tsar Nicholas II was a multifaceted choice influenced by political strategy, public sentiment, and the delicate nature of royal family connections. The legacy of this decision highlights the complex interplay between royal families and national politics, particularly during times of revolution and war.