Emperor Peter I, who ruled Russia from 1682 to 1725, was only 10 when he ascended the throne of Russia as co-ruler with his half brother, Ivan V. Peter became sole ruler in 1696, and after 1698 his power was undisputed.

In 1697, Peter's thirst for knowledge led him to tour Western Europe. The superior technology and advanced culture he encountered made him determined to turn Russia, which still languished in the Middle Ages, into a modern, influential nation. By the time of his death in 1725, Peter had reformed many of Russia's outdated political and economic systems and had transformed Russia into a formidable European power.


Peter’s military accomplishments were equally impressive. His victories helped increase Russia’s international trade and political influence in the world. During a war with Sweden, he captured land on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, providing Russia with direct maritime access to Europe. This conquered territory included the site upon which he would begin building St. Petersburg in 1703.