Peter the Great, a towering figure in Russian history, embarked on a radical mission to modernize his vast empire. His methods were often brutal and disruptive, upending centuries of tradition and challenging the established order. He implemented sweeping reforms that impacted every aspect of Russian life, from the military and government to dress and social customs. While these changes brought Russia closer to the European powers, they also came at a significant cost, fracturing the nation and creating internal strife.
