For what reasons, and with what results, did Alexander II try to reform Russian institutions?

Alexander II was the ruler of Russia in years 1855-1881. These were times of raging tensions as Russia lost its international position after the Crimean War in 1855. Alexander II was called the 'Tsar Liberator' because he acknowledged the military weakness and accepted that serfs were necessary to improve the situation in the country. He implemented a variety of reforms directed at the serfs to strengthen Russia and keep the autocratic rule. Critics say he merely 'window dressed' and the reforms were never meant for serfs' well-being.To assess the results, we should focus on particular reforms (military, legislation, education local governments). Firstly, the reforms aimed at serfs were motivated by Alexander's fear of revolution and started with the Emancipation Act which gave serfs little more than freedom as they were still bound to their land by MIRs and had to pay "redemption payments" for 49 years. They were still revolutionary and such changes never had place in Russia. Secondly, military reform was encouraged by abolishing serfdom and witnessing the failure of Russian troops in the Crimean War. The results of reforms included the modernization of the army, but were also the first attempt at greater equality and an attack on the class warfare. Thirdly, legislation was necessary as peasants needed to have their place in Russia defined. The changes improved the legal system on the local level, although peasants were trialed by separate courts, strengthening class division. Fourthly, the reforms of local governments meant that in 1864 Zemstvos were introduced. The nobility kept its dominant position, so the reforms were not a threat to autocracy and encouraged class division, but at the same time improved administration and proved that Russians can be democratic. Lastly, the reform of education was a great step in modernizing and strengthening Russia. It allowed to improve the standards of living of Russians.