Russian History: The Era of Palace Revolutions (1725–1762)

The period following Peter the Great's death was one of the most turbulent in Russian history, marked by rapid successions, court conspiracies, and shifting alliances. Understanding this Era of Palace Revolutions is essential to grasping how the Russian autocracy and nobility evolved. In this comprehensive text-based course, you will journey through the crucial decades between 1725 and 1762, analyzing the systemic causes and consequences of these power struggles. You will transition from seeing this era as mere court gossip to understanding it as a complex interplay of institutional changes, military guard influence, and social reform. What you'll learn: Identify the core political and social triggers that led to the era of frequent coup d'états; Analyze the roles of key rulers and power brokers, from Catherine I to Peter III; Understand the growing political influence of the imperial guards and the shifting privileges of the nobility; Examine the foreign policy shifts and domestic reforms that occurred despite political instability; Trace the evolution of state institutions, including the Supreme Privy Council. The course begins with foundational concepts of succession law and progresses chronologically through each major coup, analyzing the underlying social forces. Designed for history enthusiasts and beginners with no prior background in Russian history, this guide offers a clear path to historical literacy. Start reading today to master the political dynamics of eighteenth-century Russia.