ZEMSTVA
Etymology
Noun
zemstva
plural of zemstvo
Source: Wiktionary
ZEMSTVO
Zem"stvo, n. [Russ., fr. zemlya land.]
Definition: In Russia, an elective local district and provincial
administrative assembly. Originally it was composed of
representatives elected by the peasantry, the householders of the
towns, and the landed proprietors. In the reign of Alexander III. the
power of the noble landowners was increased, the peasants allowed
only to elect candidates from whom the governor of the province
nominated the deputy, and all acts of the zemstvo subjected to the
approval of the governor. Theoretically the zemstvo has large powers
relating to taxation, education, public health, etc., but practically
these powers are in most cases limited to the adjustment of the state
taxation.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition