State Council and the Political Crisis of the Interregnum

The article is devoted to the activities of highest state body Russian Empire during interregnum 1825. political crisis changed institutional status State Council. His position in system power this period was not based on legislative acts, it depended time-honored Senate and determined by tasks plan for Nikolai Pavlovich's coming power. It shown that meeting November 27, members supported initiative Nicholas swear allegiance Constantine, but included official protocol an unacceptable formula his abdication. completely ignored decision This circumstance perceived as normative natural. decisive Council took place night December 13–14, difficult identify bureaucratic logic event. gathered Council, read out a manifesto them and, without requiring oath, sent home. For all actors these events, key oath Senate. All gives reason conclude only proscenium struggle interregnum, theatrical performance served source information about moods dignitaries. He made decisions own, coordinating with confidants, implemented through