Savva Morozov Russian businessman, philanthropist, sympathized with and helped revolutionaries Date of Birth: 03.02.1862 Country: Russia

1. Biography of Savva Morozov
2. Early Life and Rise to Wealth
3. Family Business and Success
4. The "Morozov Strike" and Family Scandals
5. Marriage and Lavish Lifestyle
6. Philanthropy and Support for the Arts
7. Love Affair and Tragic Ending

Biography of Savva Morozov

Savva Timofeevich Morozov, a Russian entrepreneur and philanthropist, sympathized with and supported revolutionaries. He was known for his immense moral strength rather than his wealth. Savva attempted to transform himself into a spiritually enlightened and art-loving individual, but ultimately succumbed to suicide. His life story leads to spirited and controversial conclusions about the necessity for money earners to be soulless and narrow-minded in order to survive as a class. For the sake of public welfare, they should be prohibited from visiting museums and theaters and forbidden from falling in love with actresses.

Early Life and Rise to Wealth

In the early 20th century, the elite Moscow merchant class was dominated by the Morozov family, with two and a half families bearing the name Morozov. The most prominent figure among them was Savva Timofeevich Morozov, the largest calico fabric manufacturer. The exact size of the Morozov fortune can only be speculated upon today. "T-vo Nikolskoi Manufactury Savva Morozov, son and Co" was one of the top three most profitable productions in Russia. Savva's annual income as the director amounted to 250,000 rubles, compared to the then Minister of Finance, Sergei Witte, who earned ten times less. Savva belonged to the generation of "new" Moscow merchants, who, unlike their fathers and grandfathers, had a European education, artistic taste, and diverse interests. They were just as concerned with spiritual and social issues as they were with making money.

Family Business and Success

The family business was initiated by Savva's grandfather, Savva Vasilievich Morozov, a resourceful peasant from the Vladimir province who opened a workshop producing silk lace and ribbons. He slowly transitioned into manufacturing cotton and linen products and saw his fortunes rise during the aftermath of the 1812 war and the subsequent boost to the cotton industry. Savva Timofeevich took over the business after his father's death and expanded it further. He acquired land in Central Asia to grow cotton and modernized the equipment, replacing British specialists with young graduates from the Imperial Technical School. In Moscow business circles, Timofeevich enjoyed immense authority and was the first to receive the honorary title of Manufacturing Advisor. He served as a member of the Moscow City Duma, chairman of the Moscow Stock Exchange Committee and Merchant Bank, and a member of the management board of the Kursk Railway.

The "Morozov Strike" and Family Scandals

In 1885, the "Morozov Strike" broke out at the Nikolskaya Manufactury, lasting for two weeks. The strike, the first organized labor movement in Russia, led to a scandalous trial. Savva Morozov was called as a witness, and the public directed their anger towards him rather than the defendants. The trial ended with a tumultuous uproar, and Morozov's reputation was severely tarnished. Savva's health deteriorated, and he eventually became estranged from the family business, leaving it to his wife. Despite these difficulties, Savva's innovative approach and modernization efforts allowed the family business to thrive.

Marriage and Lavish Lifestyle

Savva Morozov's marriage to Zinaida Grigorievna, the wife of his cousin, caused scandal and family disgrace, as divorce was not accepted in Russian society at the time. However, the couple went through with the marriage, and Zinaida became known for her extravagant and luxurious lifestyle. Savva indulged her every whim, while he himself remained unpretentious. Their marriage eventually became loveless, and they lived separate lives despite sharing the same house. Zinaida reveled in her social success, hosting lavish parties and surrounding herself with the Moscow elite.

Philanthropy and Support for the Arts

Savva Morozov's greatest contribution was his financial support of the Moscow Art Theatre (MHAT). He donated a significant sum of money for the construction of the theatre building and formulated the guiding principles of the institution, emphasizing accessibility, affordable ticket prices, and plays of public interest. In addition to his support for MHAT, Savva also contributed funds for the publication of books and donated to the Red Cross. He was known for his passionate and spirited nature, which led him to endorse various causes.

Love Affair and Tragic Ending

Savva Morozov had a passionate affair with Maria Andreevna, an actress at the Art Theatre. Despite his wealth and influence, Savva could not escape societal disapproval and scandal. His marriage to Zinaida deteriorated further, and he ultimately resorted to suicide. His life was marked by contradictions and conflicts between his desire for spiritual enlightenment and his material wealth. Savva Morozov's legacy as a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and supporter of the arts remains a complex and controversial chapter in Russian history.