Absolutism Peter the Great Russia Peter the Great

Absolutism Peter the Great: Russia

Peter the Great n Ruled until 1696 n The Russian Church and the nobles, called Boyars, were two prime targets n Major goal was the Westernization of Russia

Russia Before Peter the Great n Lacked an ice-free port which hindered trade and communication with Europe n Mongol influence of about 250 years: u Russia developed the idea of strong man rule which would last into the 20 th century (1992)

Westernization & Modernization n Created a stronger Russian army that could obtain his “window on the West” n Needed access to Black Sea as well as access to the Baltic Sea

Westernization & Modernization

Westernization & Modernization n Unlike Western Europe, serfdom still existed in Russia and was very widespread u Serfs could be bought and sold like slaves

Peter’s Reforms Grand Embassy took Peter to Holland, Venice & England to learn as much as he could so he could strengthen Russia and her army He visited almost every factory, museum & printing press

Peter’s Reforms n Peter made the following changes to Russia once he returned to Russia: u The Russian Church came under Peter’s direct control u Non-serfs: required to serve the state in the government or military t nobility did not guarantee any high positions t

Peter’s Reforms Encouraged industrialization and provided government money for companies to start making products the army needed

Peter’s Reforms Eastern fashions were prohibited men u could not wear beards Newspaper created to help the increase in literacy and exchange ideas u

Peter’s Reforms u Peter built his new capital, St. Petersburg on Swedish lands on the Baltic Sea t provided the ice-free port that Russia had desired for so long

The peasant stayed outside looking in while the nobility continued to enjoy a privilege – *this gap between classes would have dire consequences for Russia’s future

Enlightened Despots (Kings) Frederick the Great Prussia (1740 – 1786)

Enlightened Despots (Kings) Frederick the Great Prussia (1740 – 1786) “First Servant of the State” Religious Tolerance “Heaven in his own Fashion”

Enlightened Despots Joseph II Holy Roman Empire ( 1765 – 1790 ) “The Peasant Emperor” • • • Went out to the Pubs undercover… Extended Tolerance to Protestants and Jews Ended Censorship Sold Monasteries and Convents Ended Serfdom

ABSOLUTE MONARCH TRADING CARDS {pt. I} • Henry IV • Cardinal Richelieu • Louis XIV • Maria Theresa • Frederick the Great • Stuarts • Oliver Cromwell • William and Mary • Peter the Great