Alexander II faced several major challenges in implementing his reforms. Firstly, there was significant resistance from conservative elements within the society, especially the nobility, who were reluctant to lose their privileges and control over the serfs. Secondly, the sheer size and diversity of the Russian Empire made it difficult to enforce reforms uniformly. Administrative inefficiencies and the lack of a developed infrastructure further complicated the implementation process. Thirdly, the reforms themselves were often compromised, as they tried to balance modernisation with maintaining the autocratic structure, leading to half-measures that satisfied neither the reformists nor the conservatives. Lastly, the rising revolutionary movements, which expected more radical changes, viewed the reforms as insufficient, leading to increased political unrest.

Alexander II's educational reforms inadvertently contributed to the spread of revolutionary ideas. By expanding education and increasing access to higher education, these reforms created a more educated and politically aware class of citizens. The relaxation of censorship, although temporary, allowed for a wider dissemination of liberal and radical ideas. Students and intellectuals, exposed to these ideas, began to question the existing political and social order. Universities became hotbeds of political discussion, fostering a generation of revolutionaries and reformists. This educated class played a crucial role in the dissemination of revolutionary ideologies, contributing to the growing unrest and opposition to the autocratic regime.

The development of railways under Alexander II had a profound significance in the modernisation of Russia. Railways were essential for economic growth, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the vast Russian Empire. This connectivity not only boosted industrialisation by providing essential links between raw material sources and manufacturing centres but also helped in the integration of the Russian market. Moreover, railways played a strategic military role, allowing for faster mobilisation and transportation of troops. Socially, railways contributed to urbanisation and the spread of ideas, as people and information could move more freely, fostering a more interconnected and aware society.

The assassination of Alexander II in 1881 had a profound impact on the course of Russian reforms. It marked a dramatic halt to the era of 'Great Reforms' initiated by Alexander II and led to a period of increased repression under his successor, Alexander III. The new Tsar, viewing the reforms as partly responsible for his father's assassination, adopted a more conservative and repressive approach. This included reversing many of Alexander II’s liberal policies, increasing censorship, and clamping down on revolutionary movements. The hopes for continued liberalisation and modernisation under the autocracy were significantly diminished, leading to increased disillusionment and radicalisation among those who sought more profound changes in Russian society and governance.

Alexander II's reforms, particularly the Emancipation of the Serfs, significantly impacted the role of the nobility in Russian society. Prior to these reforms, the nobility held extensive power and control over the serfs. The emancipation, while freeing the serfs, also disrupted the traditional socio-economic structure, leading to a decline in the nobility's wealth and influence. Their economic power was further eroded as they were compensated by the state with bonds for the loss of their serfs, which often proved to be of little value. This loss of economic and social status created discontent among the nobility, contributing to the growing opposition to Alexander II's rule. Additionally, the introduction of local self-government (Zemstvos) in 1864 reduced the nobility's administrative control, further diminishing their traditional roles.