What efforts for reform occurred in Russia between 1850 and 1870, and how successful were they in alleviating the nation's problems? Compare and contrast the "emancipation proclamations" of Alexander II and President Lincoln. What are the differences between them, if any? How did each of the leaders justify their actions? Were both equally effective? What was the aftermath in both nations? Was the tsar or Lincoln more successful in meeting the goals of emancipation?