Future Emperor Nicholas II Romanov was born on May 6 (19), 1868. His upbringing was semi-military, with an emphasis on modest living and Orthodox piety. In 1894, after the death of his father, he ascended the Throne and married Princess Alix, who took the name Alexandra Feodorovna. They had five children: Olga, Tatiana, Maria, Anastasia, and the heir Alexei. The Sovereign raised his children in the spirit of the Orthodox faith, actively participating in church life, opening monasteries and churches, and striving for the canonization of saints.
His deep faith brought him closer to the people, and he showed tolerance towards other religions. Nicholas II considered service to the Tsar a sacred duty, basing his actions on religious and moral convictions. With the onset of World War I, he was with the army, while the Empress and daughters became nurses. However, despite personal efforts, the royal family faced opposition and difficulties, leading to a conspiracy against Nicholas II.
On March 2, 1917, he signed his abdication from the Throne, after which the family was arrested. In captivity, they maintained prayer and religiosity despite humiliations. On April 26, 1918, the royal family was transferred to Yekaterinburg, where on July 16 they received the order for execution. In the night from July 16 to 17, they were shot, and their bodies were destroyed. Since their death, many began to venerate them as holy martyrs.
In August 2000, at the Jubilee Archpastoral Council of the Russian Orthodox Church, Nicholas II, Alexandra Feodorovna, and their children were canonized as holy passion-bearers, whose memory is celebrated on July 17.
