Grigori Rasputin, a Russian mystic and self-proclaimed holy man, gained the favor of Czar Nicholas II and Czarina Alexandra in 1908 by mysteriously stopping the bleeding of their hemophiliac son and heir, Alexei. Hailing from Siberia, Rasputin's influence over the ruling family of Russia eventually became potent and destructive. His privileged position within the royal circle led to controversy, as well as suspicion and near hatred from both nobles and church officials. Rasputin had become a threat to the empire, and he had to be dealt with.
Explore the following gallery to learn about Rasputin's background, his rise to power, and the gruesome circumstances surrounding his death.