History
The Russian Empire: A Brief History
Explore the Russian Empire, one of history's largest empires, from its founding by Peter the Great to its dramatic fall in the 1917 Revolution.
What is it?
The Russian Empire was a vast state that existed from 1721 until 1917. Proclaimed by Peter the Great, it became one of the largest empires in history, surpassed in size only by the British and Mongol empires. At its peak, it stretched across three continents—Europe, Asia, and North America—covering about one-sixth of the world's landmass. Governed by an absolute monarch, the Tsar or Emperor, its capital was Saint Petersburg. The empire was a multi-ethnic and multi-religious state, with a population of over 125 million by the late 19th century.
Why is it trending?
The Russian Empire remains a topic of significant historical interest due to its profound impact on global events. Its rise coincided with the decline of neighboring powers like the Swedish and Ottoman Empires. It played a crucial role in European politics, notably in defeating Napoleon's ambitions. The empire is also famous for its cultural achievements in literature and the arts. Its dramatic collapse during the Russian Revolution of 1917, which ended the Romanov dynasty and led to the creation of the Soviet Union, is a pivotal moment in world history.
How does it affect people?
The legacy of the Russian Empire profoundly shapes the modern world, particularly in Eastern Europe and Asia. Its territorial expansion and policies defined the borders and ethnic composition of many modern nations. The empire's history of autocratic rule, serfdom, and eventual, turbulent reforms influences contemporary political discourse and national identities in Russia and its former territories. Its eventual fall gave rise to the Soviet Union, setting the stage for the Cold War and continuing to impact global geopolitics today.