Loris-Melikov, Count Mikhail Tarielovich (1825–1888)

Russian statesman of Armenian origin. He led a commission to examine the causes of terrorism, after attempts on Tsar Alexander II's life. Loris-Melikov later became minister of the Interior. He drew up plans for more democratic government in Russia, but these were rejected after the Tsar's assassination in 1881.

Loris-Melikov's commission was given dictatorial powers over all government authorities. He used these powers to placate liberal opinion in the country. The period of his rule became known as ‘the dictatorship of the heart’. After six months the commission was.abolished. Loris-Melikov resigned after Tsar Alexander III was persuaded to reject his plan for a representative assembly and a form of Cabinet government.