Introduction

This study investigates how autocracies manage collective action through representation, using data from Imperial Russia.

Data & Methods

Researchers analyze peasant representation in local self-government institutions against historical records of peasant unrest preceding major reforms.

They address potential measurement errors and endogeneity issues by focusing on two unique determinants: the length of serfdom history and levels of religious polarization within districts.

Key Findings

* Peasant representation was lower in areas with higher prior unrest frequency.

* This pattern aligns with Acemoglu & Robinson's model predicting minimal concessions during instability, contrary to established political transition theory.

* Subsequent redistribution patterns deviate from the expected commitment mechanism central to that model.

Significance

These results challenge conventional wisdom about autocratic institutional change and suggest important nuances in how power dynamics influence reforms.