The Rise of Russia and Prussia: Crash Course European History #17

Summary

In this episode of Crash Course European History, John Green explores the rise of Russia and Prussia during the 17th century. The focus is on Russia's Tsar Peter the Great, who modernized and westernized the country through military reforms, cultural changes, and the founding of St. Petersburg. Meanwhile, Brandenburg-Prussia expanded under the leadership of the Hohenzollern family, particularly Frederick William I, who built a powerful military. Both states centralized power, often at the expense of the peasantry, paving the way for their significant influence in European affairs.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Peter I of Russia, also known as Peter the Great, ruled with widespread public support, despite his autocratic nature.
• 📜 Peter reorganized the military and nobility, introducing a merit-based system and weakening old practices like nepotism.
• 🔧 He was fascinated by Western Europe and embarked on a journey in 1697 to study Western technology and governance, inspiring his modernization of Russia.
• 🏰 Peter built a new city, St. Petersburg, modeled after European cities, using thousands of serfs in harsh conditions.
• 🔬 Peter promoted education and modernization in the sciences, math, and engineering, while reducing the power of the Russian Orthodox Church.
• 🎓 He enforced that sons of the nobility study subjects like math and science to retain their aristocratic status and serve in the military.
• 💂 Prussia also rose as a powerful kingdom, with rulers like Frederick William I focusing on a strong military and consolidating power.
• ⚔️ Both Russia and Prussia used military strength and administrative reforms to solidify their control, often at the expense of the peasantry.
• 🚧 The modernization and state-building in Russia and Prussia led to weakened noble power over peasants, yet further entrenched serfdom.
• 🛡️ Poland-Lithuania, in contrast, failed to modernize and build strong state institutions, leading to its decline as Prussia and Russia rose.

Q & A

Who was Peter I, and what challenges did he face early in life?

Peter I, also known as Peter the Great, was born in 1672 and was not initially first in line for the Russian throne. His half-sister Sophia ruled as regent, but Peter and his supporters later challenged her rule and established him as Tsar.

What role did various interest groups play in Peter's rise to power?

Interest groups such as the Orthodox Church, the army, the aristocracy, and wealthy traders helped shape Peter's ascent to power. These groups negotiated to find a consensus candidate for Tsar, and Peter gained public support, helping solidify his claim.

How did Peter the Great reorganize Russian society and government?

Peter reorganized both the military and the nobility, introducing a meritocratic 'table of ranks' where promotions depended on service to the state. He also diminished the power of the Russian Orthodox Church by leaving the patriarchate vacant and setting up a council to oversee it.

Why did Peter the Great travel to Western Europe, and what did he learn there?

Peter was fascinated by Western Europe’s advancements in areas like canal building, fire control, and trade. His travels to places like the Netherlands inspired him to modernize and westernize Russia upon his return.

What was the significance of Peter's military reforms?

Peter modernized the Russian army, increasing its size to 200,000 recruits and improving weaponry. His military reforms proved essential in Russia’s victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War, securing important territorial gains.

How did the creation of St. Petersburg reflect Peter’s vision for Russia?

St. Petersburg was designed as a modern European-style city with canals and grand buildings, showcasing Peter’s admiration for Western European architecture. It also symbolized his broader push to modernize and westernize Russia.

How did Peter the Great aim to change the role of women in Russian society?

Peter sought to bring women into public life, decreeing an end to the veiling of women and encouraging their participation in social events. He also created schools for women to learn reading, writing, and other skills.

What impact did Peter's reforms have on the Russian aristocracy?

Peter reformed the aristocracy by introducing a merit-based ranking system and requiring noblemen’s sons to study subjects like math, science, or engineering. These changes were meant to modernize the ruling class and integrate them into his vision of a modern state.

How did Peter’s modernization efforts affect the Russian peasantry?

While Peter’s modernization benefited the aristocracy, it often made life harder for peasants. Serfs faced greater restrictions on their mobility and endured harsh working conditions, particularly during the construction of St. Petersburg.

What was the significance of Prussia under the Hohenzollern dynasty during the same period?

Prussia, under the Hohenzollern dynasty, evolved from a small, landlocked state to a powerful kingdom. Leaders like the Great Elector Frederick William and his descendants focused on strengthening the military, which became one of Europe’s most modern armies.