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Russia Engages the World, 1453-1825
1453 Through the Reign of Ivan the Terrible (1533-1584) The Time of Troubles to the First Romanovs (1598-1682) Peter the Great and His Legacy (1682-1762) The Age of Catherine the Great (1762-1801) The Reign of Emperor Alexander I (1801-1825)

                                     

Explore this Section:

The Petrine Era
The Founding of the Russian Navy


Russia's Globalization:
A Key

Events marked Russia Symbol are specific to Muscovy/Russia's internal development.
Those marked World Symbol are important world historical or cultural events.
Engagement Symbol indicates specific points of sociocultural or military engagement between Muscovy/Russia and foreign powers or individuals.




















 

 

    The Russians Document a Victory
 
   Photographic Services & Permissions
 

Aleksei Fedorovich Zubov (1682–1751)
Etching depicting the Russian naval victory over Sweden at Hangö (Gangut) Head, July 27, 1714
St. Petersburg, 1717
NYPL, Slavic and Baltic Division

Beginning with one vessel in 1695, Peter the Great created the Russian navy. By the end of his life, Russia could boast a fleet of over 800 vessels serviced by 28,000 men. Peter personally participated in Russia’s first major victory at sea, the battle of Hangö Head, fought against the Swedes and a decisive encounter in the Great Northern War.

Aleksei Zubov, considered the first Russian printmaker, was trained by Dutch graphic artists hired by Peter the Great to work in Russia. He executed numerous commissions for Peter, including maps, views of St. Petersburg, depictions of court celebrations, and illustrations for technical manuals.