The Zest of the Revolution in Russia

Zemstas were quasi representative bodies tasked with engineering work and infa structure projects. But they existed completely independently of the regular governor or district officials. They could not overrule the governor, but they also did not work for him. The main problem since the 18 sixties was actually what to do with the emancipated peasantry at the very lowest levels. Villages were run by local elders who handled local just and disputes. For women this was especially stifling as their livelihoods and freedom were controlled by patriarchal village elders.