Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin

Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin – a Siberian peasant, a friend of the family of the Russian Emperor Nicholas II. He had a reputation as a "friend of the tsar", a starets (elder), a seer and a healer. Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin was born on January 9, 1869 in the village of Pokrovskoye in the Tobolsk Governorate. Rasputin's early years were spent in the family of a coachman. In his youth he made pilgrimages to various holy sites in Russia; he visited Mount Athos and Jerusalem. These journeys influenced his religious views and determined his subsequent life path. In 1904 he moved to Saint Petersburg.

 

In 1905 Rasputin became acquainted with the imperial family. His influence on the imperial family, especially on Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, was connected with his help in treating the Tsarevich Alexei for hemophilia. This influence led to numerous accusations and rumors that surrounded Rasputin throughout his life in the capital. Because of the accusations, Rasputin was forced to leave Petersburg for some time, making a trip to Jerusalem. The charges were later dropped, but the harassment continued.

 

In 1914 an assassination attempt was made on Rasputin. After that he received treatment for some time in Tyumen, but in 1916 he was killed as the result of a conspiracy. Grigori Rasputin actively participated in Russia's political life and, according to some historians, influenced Nicholas II's decisions, including regarding participation in the Balkan War. Rasputin left behind two books: "The Life of an Experienced Pilgrim" and "My Thoughts and Reflections", and many prophecies are also attributed to him.