Peter the Great

• Peter the Great is credited with modernizing Russia and transforming it into a European power, often associated with Westernization.
• Peter's Westernizing tendencies were crucial to Russia's development and progress.
  • He established the first Russian navy, reformed the military, introduced new industries, and implemented new laws and regulations.
• Peter's policies undermined Russia's unique cultural heritage and traditions.
  • He enforced strict dress codes and banned the traditional long beards, which many Russians saw as a symbol of their identity.
  • His policies led to the peasantry's exploitation and the nobility's growth, which resulted in social inequality.