Peter the Great

Who was Peter the Great?

Tsar of Russia (1682-1725) who Westernized and modernized Russia.

Why did Peter the Great want to reform Russia?

He believed Russia was behind Europe in military power, technology, industry, and government efficiency.

What inspired Peter's reforms?

His trip to Western Europe (Grand Embassy), where he saw more advanced armies, navies, and technology.

What social changes did Peter the Great make?

Forced nobles to shave beards and wear Western clothes; created schools for science, math, and engineering; introduced the Table of Ranks; used serfs for major state projects.

Why did Peter reform social customs?

To break traditional noble culture and build a modern, loyal, educated society.

What political reforms did Peter introduce?

Strengthened absolutism, required noble service, controlled the Orthodox Church, built a modern army/navy, won Great Northern War, moved capital to St. Petersburg.

Why did Peter centralize political power?

To enforce reforms and strengthen Russia for expansion and competition with Europe.

How did Peter the Great interact with the environment?

Built St. Petersburg on swamps using forced labor, drained land, built canals, expanded territory for a warm-water port.

Why did Peter build St. Petersburg and expand territory?

To create a 'window to the West' for trade, naval power, and European influence.

What cultural changes did Peter enforce?

Western clothing, social customs, and education; sent nobles to Europe; invited European experts; reformed alphabet and calendar; reduced Church power.

Why did Peter push Western cultural changes?

He believed Western culture was more advanced and essential for modernization.

What economic changes did Peter the Great make?

Built factories, shipyards, and ironworks; raised taxes (like beard tax); used serf labor; increased trade through Baltic ports.

Why did Peter reform the economy?

To support his modern army, boost industry, and strengthen Russia's power.

How did Peter the Great change Russia overall?

He transformed Russia into a more modern, Westernized, and powerful European state.

What city symbolized Peter's Westernization efforts?

St. Petersburg — built as a Western-style city and new Russian capital.