Peter the Great and the Reform of the Russian State: From Moscow to Saint Petersburg

This article examines the transformative reign of Peter I of Russia (1682–1725), emphasizing his extensive reforms that modernized the Russian state. It explores the restructuring of the military, administration, economy, and culture that shifted Russia from a feudal principality into a centralized European empire. Particular attention is given to Peter’s efforts to introduce Western administrative models, establish a professional army and navy, and reform education, culture, and the Orthodox Church. The founding of Saint Petersburg as a new western-oriented capital symbolized his vision of a modern Russia integrated into European political and cultural life. Through historical and institutional analysis, the study evaluates the motivations, implementation, and long-term impact of these reforms on Russian governance, identity, and modernity.