Nicholas II of Russia was born on May 18, 1868. His astrological sign is Taurus, the sign of the bull, which is known for being both strong-willed and determined. Tauruses are known for their independent and direct nature, which can make it difficult for opportunities to be refused.
Nicholas II was born in Tsarskoye Selo (Tsar’s Village) near St. Petersburg and was the eldest son of Alexander III, the Tsar of Russia. Nicholas was highly influenced by his conservative father who never smiled. Growing up, Nicholas was tutored in French and Russian, and eventually converted from Lutheranism to Russian Orthodoxy in order to become Tsar. He was also a devoted family man, marrying Princess Alix of Hesse in 1894, with whom he had four daughters and one son, the future Tsar Alexis.
Nicholas II was known to be malleable and sensitive to aristocratic voices, making him inclined to reactionism, which ultimately delayed needed reforms in health, education, and many other areas of life in Russia. Nicholas was also a key figure of Russian military efforts during World War I, leading the country’s armies into battle. Ultimately, his leadership undermined his power and led to his overthrowing in the Russian Revolution of 1917, bringing the ruling dynasty to an end.
