Absolutism in Russia/Prussia Flashcards
Who is Ivan the Terrible?
16th century ruler with iron first who started Time of Troubles
Who is Michael?
grandson of Ivan and first Romanov who consolidated Russian power
Who is Peter the Great?
1689-1725
taxed peasants to build 200,000+ military
wanted to increase industry after seeing western advancement
replaced Russian Orthodox with Holy Synod when reforms were objected
huge tax increase
Who is Catherine the Great?
(1762-96) Enlightened despot until 1773 peasant revolt. Then made serf life harder and freed nobility from tax. Stole Ottoman land and helped wipe Poland. Started Russia as a great power.
Origins of Prussia
1657 Hohenzollerns start ruling after gaining freedom from Poland
What was Prussia like in its early history?
Built great military under Frederick William I and “Frederick II the Great”, but almost was wiped out in the 7 Years’ War
