Lesson 2: Absolutism in Russia and Central Europe

Key Idea

At the end of the 17th century, Russia was a vast but isolated nation. Tsar Peter the Great believed Russia needed to change to compete with other European powers. He traveled to Western Europe to study its military, economy, and culture.

Peter then launched a series of reforms to modernize, or westernize, his country. He created a professional army and navy, forced nobles to adopt European fashions, and took greater control over the government. He also built the new capital city of St. Petersburg as a "window on the West."

Key Idea

Russia’s northern ports froze for much of the year, which limited its trade and navy. Peter the Great fought a long war with Sweden to gain access to the Baltic Sea. This victory gave Russia a new "window on the West" for year-round trade and naval power.

Later, Catherine the Great continued this goal of expansion. Her armies defeated the Ottoman Empire, giving Russia control over the northern coast of the Black Sea.

Key Idea

When Maria Theresa became ruler of the diverse Austrian Habsburg lands, other powers challenged her. Prussia, a growing rival, seized Austrian territory, sparking decades of conflict. This threatened to break her empire apart.

To hold her empire together, Maria Theresa fought back and introduced reforms. She strengthened the government and improved the economy. Although Austria lost some land, her leadership ensured it remained a strong and unified power in Central Europe.

Key Idea

In Central Europe, the kingdom of Prussia grew into a major power under King Frederick the Great. He inherited a large, well-trained army and was not afraid to use it to expand his territory.

Frederick launched a surprise invasion of neighboring Austria to seize its valuable province of Silesia. This aggressive action made Prussia a major rival to Austria for control of the German-speaking lands.