Russia Under Peter the Great: Diplomacy and Empire

Explore the pivotal era of Peter the Great and understand how Russia's strategic decisions reshaped its destiny. Discover the motivations behind building a powerful navy, the true objectives of the Great Northern War, and the far-reaching consequences of key battles. This course provides a foundational understanding of early 18th-century Russian foreign policy and military expansion. You will learn about the critical geopolitical shifts, the development of naval power, the complexities of international alliances, and the impact of significant conflicts on European history. What you'll learn: * Grasp the fundamental principles of diplomacy and statecraft in early 18th-century Europe. * Analyze the strategic importance of naval development and its role in Russia's rise. * Understand the causes, key events, and outcomes of the Great Northern War. * Evaluate the impact of major military engagements on the balance of power. * Recognize the lasting geopolitical changes initiated during Peter the Great's reign. The course progresses from foundational concepts of the period to detailed analysis of diplomatic maneuvers and military campaigns. Designed for beginners, no prior knowledge of Russian history or international relations is required. Begin your journey into this transformative period of history.