Final answer:
The Russian Orthodox Church was deeply integrated with the state during the Russian Empire, supporting the Tsar's autocracy and owning significant lands. Although it faced persecution during the Soviet era, which led to a decline in religious practice, it historically played a pivotal role in shaping Russian identity and governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Russian Orthodox Church played a significant role in the Russian Empire, deeply intertwining with the state's governance and ideology. The Church not only provided spiritual guidance to the populous but also was a pillar supporting the autocratic regime, preaching total obedience to the Tsar.
During the tumultuous era of the 19th century, amidst serfdom and political oppression, the Church continued to maintain its influence, owning around one-third of the arable land post-Mongol rule and aligning closely with conservative forces resistant to reform.
However, with the advent of Soviet power, the government imposed state atheism, severely weakening the Church by destroying its infrastructure and persecuting religious figures, which dramatically reduced the practice of Orthodoxy in the country.