As a skillful actor playing a "Tsar," Pugachev was able to unite diverse groups with conflicting interests (Cossacks vs. Peasants).

The imperial army was disciplined, modern, and well-armed, whereas the rebels were largely ill-equipped peasants.

The movement was organized like a traditional army, with military ranks, a military council, and artillery.

The revolt spread rapidly from the Ural Mountains to the Volga River, threatening major cities like Kazan. 4. Characteristics of the Leader: Yemelyan Pugachev

Unlike earlier leaders of peasant revolts, Pugachev was an experienced Cossack soldier. 5. Why It Failed (Causes of Defeat)

The landed gentry (landowners), government officials, and the institution of serfdom itself.

Abolition of serfdom, ending the exploitation of Cossacks, and the dismantling of the gentry class. 2. Ideology: Naive Monarchism

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