Russian Empire

In this episode, we explore the rise and fall of the Russian Empire, the vast Eurasian superpower that existed from 1721 to 1917. Beginning with Peter the Great’s proclamation of the empire, we examine how Russia transformed from a regional tsardom into a sprawling multi-ethnic state through modernization efforts, military expansion, and the influential reign of rulers such as Catherine the Great. The episode looks at the empire’s political and social structure, including its absolute monarchy, rigid estate system, and the widespread institution of serfdom that shaped everyday life for millions. We also discuss key turning points such as the Emancipation Reform of 1861, the revolutionary unrest of 1905, and Russia’s costly involvement in World War I. Ultimately, we trace how mounting social tensions, economic struggles, and military failures culminated in the revolutions of 1917, bringing an end to the Russian Empire and ushering in a new political era.