Who advised Nicholas II of Russia and was known for his controversial reputation?

The figure who advised Nicholas II of Russia and is best known for his controversial reputation is Rasputin. Grigori Rasputin, a mystic and self-proclaimed holy man, became closely associated with the Russian royal family in the early 20th century. His influence grew particularly as he gained the trust of the Tsar and Tsarina, especially regarding their son Alexei, who suffered from hemophilia. Rasputin's involvement in the royal court and his perceived influence over the monarchy led to widespread discontent among Russian nobility and the public, contributing to the growing unrest that ultimately culminated in the Russian Revolution. His reputation was marred by allegations of corruption, debauchery, and manipulation, which positioned him as a polarizing figure in Russian history. Understanding Rasputin's role is crucial to analyzing the factors leading to the decline of the Romanov dynasty and the socio-political climate of Russia during World War I.