Historian A: Richard Pipes – Political Perspective

"Rasputin's influence was exaggerated by contemporaries and historians alike. He was a mystic who gained influence through manipulation and the Tsarina's reliance on him. His role was largely symbolic, representing the corruption and weakness of the monarchy, but not directly responsible for the fall. The real causes lay in political mismanagement, war failures, and social unrest."

Historian B: Robert Service – Social Perspective

"Rasputin's role was central to the collapse of the Tsarist regime. His close relationship with the Tsarina undermined political stability and eroded public confidence. His influence over key decisions, combined with scandals, exacerbated social unrest and contributed significantly to the revolutionary atmosphere. His presence symbolized the decay of the monarchy's moral authority."