The History of Peter the Great, Emperor of Russia

"The History of Peter the Great, Emperor of Russia" by Voltaire is a detailed historical exploration of Peter the Great's life and reign, during the 1700's. The book starts by painting a rich picture of Russia’s landscape, people, and customs before Peter's time, showing how big the country was but how few people lived there. It describes the problems and old-fashioned ways that Russia faced, setting the scene for Peter's important role. Political fights and family dramas inside the royal family, like the problems after Czar Theodore died and the revolt led by Peter's half-sister Sophia, are examined. These events help us understand the difficult world Peter stepped into, making him such a key person in Russia's story. The narrative focuses on his drive to modernize Russia, make it bigger, and give it more power in the world.