M. M. Speransky and the Problem of the Committee of Ministers in the 1st Third of the 19th Century

M. M. Speransky’s reform projects and notes are integral to understanding the historical development of the Russian state in the early 19 th century. They provide valuable insight into the functioning of the Russian Empire’s institutions and its modernization. These documents cover the whole range of socio-political, economic and institutional problems, strategic goals, tactical guidelines, the most important directions, successive and distinctive features of the transformative policy of the two reigns – Alexander I and Nicholas I, as well as give an idea of the specifics of reform activities of the managerial elite of this time. “A truly statesman”, Speransky was highly esteemed as a statesman by his peers due to his merging of theoretical expertise and practical administrative skills. This article delves into Speransky’s perspectives on the institutional status of the Committee of Ministers within the power structure of the Russian Empire in the first third of the 19 th century. It illustrates that his viewpoint on the Committee’s role changed based on the reform program's objectives, domestic and foreign political contexts, and strategic goals. Initially, Speransky acknowledged the Committee's role in state administration, but later during the reign on Alexander I contemplated its abolition due to overlapping functions with the State Council and the Senate. Ultimately, he proposed its transformation and integration with the Committee of Ministers.