Military History of the Russian Empire

In this episode, we explore the military history of the Russian Empire from its rise under Peter the Great in 1721 to its collapse during the Revolution of 1917. We discuss how Peter transformed a technologically backward state into a formidable European power through sweeping military reforms and decisive victories in the Great Northern War. The episode follows the empire’s expansion under rulers such as Catherine the Great, highlighting major campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and the pivotal role Russia played in the Napoleonic Wars. We also examine the growing challenges faced by the imperial military, including organizational stagnation and technological shortcomings that became clear during the Crimean War and the Russo-Japanese War. Ultimately, this episode traces the evolution of Russia’s army and navy, the internal revolts they confronted, and the strategic shifts that shaped the empire’s military power during the Petrine era and beyond.