Peter I, the Great
Peter I, the Great, (1672-1725) was one of the most famous rulers in history. He ruled first as czar (king) of Russia and later became Russia's first emperor. Peter transformed Russia from an isolated and backward country into a great European power.
One of Peter's chief goals was to end the inefficiency and corruption in Russia's government. Peter strengthened his power as czar and created a senate to supervise the Russian government. He began a policy of appointing people to high military or administrative offices according to merit and seniority. Previously, these appointments were based on family background. Peter also abolished the independence of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Peter's programs led to the expansion of industry and foreign trade and the construction of new roads and canals. He also laid the basis for the Russian Academy of Sciences, started Russia's first newspaper, and founded technical schools, a museum, a public library, and an art gallery. Because of his admiration for European society, Peter forced Russia's nobility to adopt many Western customs.
Excerpt adapted from the "Peter I, the Great" article, The World Book Encyclopedia © 1999