Alexander I of Russia vs Gwanghaegun of Joseon

Alexander I ascended the throne after the assassination of his father, Paul I. He was aware of the conspiracy but did not prevent it. His accession was greeted with relief by the nobility, who hoped for a return to the liberal policies of Catherine the Great.

Alexander I led Russia during Napoleon's invasion. The Russian army retreated, employing scorched-earth tactics, and then defeated the French at the Battle of Borodino. Napoleon's Grand Army was destroyed during the winter retreat from Moscow. This victory made Alexander a key figure in European politics.

Alexander I played a leading role at the Congress of Vienna, which redrew the map of Europe after Napoleon's defeat. He advocated for the creation of the Holy Alliance and secured Russian control over Poland as a constitutional kingdom. The congress established a balance of power that lasted for decades.

Alexander I initiated the Holy Alliance with Austria and Prussia, a pact based on Christian principles to maintain peace and suppress revolutions. The alliance became a tool for reactionary policies across Europe, intervening in uprisings in Italy and Spain. It reflected Alexander's growing mysticism and conservatism.

Alexander I granted a liberal constitution to the Kingdom of Poland, which he created as a personal union with Russia. The constitution established a parliament, civil liberties, and a separate army. However, Alexander later violated its provisions, leading to Polish discontent and eventual uprisings.

Alexander I died suddenly in Taganrog under unclear circumstances, leading to rumors that he had faked his death to become a hermit. The legend of Feodor Kuzmich, a holy man who appeared in Siberia and was believed to be Alexander, persisted for decades. His death triggered the Decembrist Revolt.

Gwanghaegun became king of Joseon following the death of his father, Seonjo. His reign was marked by pragmatic diplomacy and efforts to rebuild the country after the Imjin War.

Gwanghaegun pursued a policy of neutrality between Ming China and the rising Later Jin (Manchu) dynasty. He refused to send troops to aid Ming against the Manchus, prioritizing Joseon's security.

Gwanghaegun was overthrown in a coup led by the Westerner (Seoin) faction, who opposed his diplomatic policies and accused him of tyranny. He was deposed and exiled to Jeju Island.

After his deposition, Gwanghaegun was exiled to Jeju Island, where he lived under house arrest until his death in 1641. His exile marked the end of his pragmatic but controversial reign.