Timeline of Russian History

political crisis after the demise of the Rurik dynasty, established the Romanov dynasty

Russia vs. Sweden over control of land needed for a warm water port, Russia defeats Sweden

rebels intend to restore liberal ruler in place of conservative

France + Great Britain + Ottoman Empire + Sardinia vs. Russia
Russia's humiliating defeat b/c of lack of industrialisation -> social reforms under Tsar Alexander II (ex emancipation of the serfs)

under Tsar Alexander II

western education - shift from insular boyars to a different way of being
power struggle with sister Sophia (removed from power & exiled to a nunnery in Siberia)
westernization of Russia & absolute monarchy
takes down walled fortresses, takes private armies, boyars become courtiers (serve in gov't and military), shaved beards & western dress, no gender segregation, enhanced power of boyards over serfs, westernised the church
enlightened despot

originally a Lithuanian peasant, married Peter the Great, ruled by herself from 1725-1727