Peter the Great and the West

In this thought-provoking book internationally renowned experts mark the anniversary of Peter I's visit to England in 1698. They explore British-Russian relations - Peter in England, Russian apprentices, British ships and maritime technology in Peter's navy, forest surveys, British views of Russia, Scottish influences - and widen the focus to look at the Baltic question, the motives behind the founding of St Petersburg, and the 1695-6 Azov campaigns. From a glimpse of Russian court life through private letters, portraits of Peter and a description of Catherine I's household to over-views of Peter's reforms and their impact: this timely volume offers new insights into the relationship between Russia and Europe as well as Peter's personality, legacy and relevance for Russia today.