The Russian mystic Rasputin was a larger-than-life phenomenon at the court of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. But what is the truth behind the life and death of this charismatic and controversial figure? Do we now know his real killer —or will we ever?
The presentation will focus first on the fascinating tale of how a semi-literate peasant from Siberia was able to become one of the most powerful figures in Russia. The lecture will detail his relationships with Nicholas and Alexandra, and his influence on political events in that turbulent era. His 1916 murder has taken on mythic proportions. This unlikely confidante of the Romanovs was called “virtually unkillable” by his self-proclaimed assassins. The leader of the plot to kill Rasputin, Felix Yusupov, kept changing his story as late as 1967. Recent research has revealed that many of the “facts” people accepted as “true” might have been a fabrication to cover up what really happened. Even the guides at the Yusupov Palace (where Rasputin was murdered) provide different versions.
Recent research had revealed a completely different version of these events. This talk will explore the labyrinthine stories and motley characters that swirled around the murder of one of Russia’s most fascinating figures. Even more remarkable, the story ends in Palm Beach, Florida.
Ralph Nurnberger, PhD is a widely acclaimed speaker who brings humor, current political insights and historical background to his presentations. He taught History and International Relations at Georgetown University for 38 years. He received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Graduate School of Liberal Studies in 2003.
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