Peter I

A great historical figure—or a failed ruler? A brilliant reformer—or an uncompromising hegemon? Find the answers in the most complete biography of Peter the Great!

There is no more contradictory person among Russian rulers than Peter I, rightly nicknamed the Great. Some are convinced that there was no more outstanding ruler in Russia, while others believe it would have been better if he had never existed. You cannot cross Peter out of history—and even his most zealous critics have to accept that.

When judging Peter’s personality, you can’t ignore his status. Rulers are special people. They don’t forgive what they would forgive any of their subjects, and they bear enormous responsibility. However, Peter’s cruelty, his uncompromising nature, and outbursts of uncontrolled rage frightened both his contemporaries and later generations. So what was in Peter—more good or more bad? You’ll find the answer in the new book from the series "The Most Complete Biography."