History Daily: The Russian Royal Family is Executed
Podcast Information:
- Title: History Daily
- Host: Lindsay Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers)
- Description: On History Daily, Lindsay Graham takes listeners back in time every weekday to explore significant events that occurred "on this day" in history. From tragedies like December 7th, 1941, to monumental achievements like the moon landing on July 20th, 1969, the podcast illuminates the true stories behind the people and events that have shaped our world.
Episode Overview:
- Title: The Russian Royal Family is Executed
- Release Date: July 17, 2025
Introduction: The Calm Before the Storm
History Daily opens with an evocative depiction of a somber July night in 1918. Host Lindsay Graham sets the stage in a remote Russian forest near Yekaterinburg, where Bolshevik revolutionaries are on high alert amidst the turmoil of the Russian Civil War.
“It’s the early hours of the morning of July 17, 1918... a nation plagued by war, factionalism and ideological discord.” (00:00)
This introduction immerses listeners in the tense atmosphere leading up to the tragic execution of the Romanov family.
The Opulent Life of the Romanovs
Fast forwarding to February 1913 in Moscow, Lindsay paints a vivid picture of the Romanov family's lavish lifestyle. During a grand ball celebrating the Romanov tercentenary, Tsar Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra bask in the glory of their 300-year reign.
“At the center of the ballroom, Tsar Nicholas II and his wife, the Empress Alexandra, graciously received the warm wishes of their devoted subjects.” (04:59)
This section highlights the stark contrast between the opulence of the royal family and the growing discontent among the Russian populace.
Seeds of Discontent: The Growing Resentment
Despite the Tsar's confidence and the grandeur of the celebrations, underlying tensions simmer among the working classes. Economic hardships, food shortages, and Russia's dire situation in World War I exacerbate public dissatisfaction.
“The majority of the Russian population must endure difficult living conditions, economic hardships, and a lack of political representation.” (04:59)
Listeners gain insight into the socio-economic factors that fueled the revolutionary fervor leading to the downfall of the Romanovs.
The Tsar's Abdication and the Bolshevik Rise
By March 1917, political unrest forces Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate, ending over three centuries of Romanov rule. However, this power vacuum leads to further instability, paving the way for Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks to seize control.
“Tsar Nicholas II surrenders his throne, bringing 304 years of Romanov rule to an end.” (04:59)
Lindsey explains how the Bolsheviks capitalized on the chaos, setting the stage for their eventual clash with the White Army.
The Romanovs Under House Arrest
The narrative shifts to the Romanovs' captivity. Initially held in Tobolsk, the family's relocation to Yekaterinburg places them under increasingly harsh conditions as the civil war intensifies.
“Despite the miserable conditions, the Romanovs try to make the best of their incarceration.” (13:09)
This segment delves into the personal struggles of the Romanov family, highlighting their resilience amidst adversity.
The Fateful Night: July 17, 1918
The climax of the episode recounts the tragic execution of the Romanov family. Early morning darkness envelopes the basement of their Yekaterinburg residence as Bolshevik guards prepare to carry out their orders.
“Tsar Nicholas steps forward uncertainly... ‘In view of the fact that your relatives continued their offensive against Soviet Russia, the Presidium of the Ural Regional Soviet has decided to sentence you to death.’” (19:35)
The tension escalates as Tsar Nicholas II is shot, followed by Empress Alexandra and their children. The scene is depicted with harrowing detail, capturing the fear and desperation of the moment.
“As soon as Victor sees the Romanov family huddled against the far wall, he feels a stab of panic.” (19:35)
Even in their final moments, the Romanovs exhibit profound humanity and terror, making their tragic end all the more poignant.
The Aftermath and Historical Impact
Following the execution, the Bolsheviks seek to eliminate any evidence of the Romanovs' existence, disposing of their remains to cover up the massacre. It wasn't until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 that official acknowledgment and documentation of the Romanovs' fate emerged, providing closure to a dark chapter in Russian history.
“The Soviets won't officially claim responsibility for the death of the Romanovs until 1991.” (21:27)
Lindsey underscores the long-lasting impact of the Romanovs' execution on both Russian history and the global perception of revolutionary justice.
Conclusion: Reflecting on a Tragic Legacy
The episode concludes by reflecting on the significance of the Romanovs' execution, emphasizing its role in shaping the course of Russian history and its enduring legacy in the collective memory.
“The admission of responsibility will mark a significant historical moment, bringing closure to the long standing mysteries surrounding the fate of the Romanov family who met their violent death on July 17, 1918.” (21:27)
By meticulously reconstructing the events leading to and including the execution, History Daily offers a comprehensive and emotionally charged portrayal of one of history's most infamous tragedies.
Produced by:
- Host: Lindsey Graham
- Audio Editing: Mohammad Shahzid
- Sound Design: Molly Bach
- Music: Lindsey Graham
- Research and Writing: Joe Viner
- Executive Producers: Alexandra Curry Buckner (Airship) and Pascal Hughes (Noiser)
Discover more episodes of History Daily on the Wondery app, Apple Podcasts, or visit intohristory.com.