"Peter I, also known as Peter the Great, was Tsar of all Russia from 1682 to 1725, and the first Emperor of all Russia from 1721. He initially ruled alongside his half-brother, Ivan V, until 1696, after which he became an absolute monarch. Peter the Great is renowned for his transformative reforms that modernized Russia and established it as a major European power.
1928: Stalin's View of Peter the Great
In 1928, Stalin expressed admiration for Peter the Great's efforts in strengthening the Russian state. He saw Peter's actions as an attempt to modernize Russia and overcome its backwardness. Stalin particularly highlighted Peter's focus on industry, military, and education.
1991: Reassessment of Peter the Great's Reign
After the collapse of Communism in 1991, historians began to reassess Peter the Great and his impact on Russia. His reign was seen as a turning point in the country's imperial history.
1993: Vodarsky's Critique of Peter the Great
In 1993, historian Y. Vodarsky challenged the view that Peter the Great modernized Russia. He claimed that Peter's actions hampered Russia's progress, setting it back significantly.