Northern War of 1700-1721., Stretching almost a quarter century, not only was the second duration in the history of the Russian state, but also changed the vectors in the international arena.Russia has not only acquired the Baltic Sea and increase their territory, but also moved to the rank of superpower, which now had to be considered the world.
foreign policy of Peter I, the causes of war
While the Tsar Peter was enthroned as early as the age of ten, full of the reins he took over only in 1689.By this time in the Grand Embassy of the young king has managed to get outside Russia and to feel the difference.In the years 1695-1696 more than an experienced king-reformer has decided to match themselves against the Ottoman Empire and started the Azov campaigns.Some goals have been reached, was captured the fortress of Azov, it secured control of the southern border of the state, but to get full access to the Black Sea, Petra did not succeed.
to reform the army and create a more modern fleet, Peter I decided to return to their own land and obtain access to the Baltic Sea, thus making Russia a maritime power.Ingria and Karelia, which had been rejected by Sweden, even in troubled times, do not give rest to the monarch-reformer.There was one more thing - a very "cold shoulder" in Riga Russian delegation headed by Peter.Thus, the Great Northern War 1700-1721, the main events which turned the course of world history, was for Russia not only a political decision, but also a matter of honor.
Home confrontation
In 1699, the Northern Alliance was signed between the Commonwealth, Denmark, Saxony and Russian kingdom.The aim of the merger was the weakening of Sweden, one of the most influential powers at the time.Each country pursuing its own interests and had territorial claims against the Swedes.Great Northern War 1700-1721 briefly divided into four main periods.
period 1700-1706 gg.- The first and most successful for Russia.In 1700 there was the first battle of Narva, in which Russian troops were defeated.Then the military initiative passed from the hands of enemies.In 1706 Russian defeated the Swedish-Polish forces under Kalish.Peter I tried by all means to leave in August allies II - King of the Commonwealth, but the Swedish king still split the coalition.Russia was left alone with a powerful fleet and army of Charles XII.
second phase of the Northern War
Northern War of 1700-1721, the main events which are related to the confrontation exclusively Swedish-Russian troops and fleets moved into the next stage.1707 -1709 years.It can be described as the second stage of the Russian-Swedish war.It became a turning point.Each of the warring sides stepped up their strength: increased size of the army and weapons.Charles XII had the idea to grab some Russian territories.But in the end I wanted to completely dismember Russia.
Russian tsar, in turn, had dreamed of the Baltics and expand their territories.Nevertheless, the international situation favored opponent.Britain has not provided assistance to Russia and in every way in the international arena to provide political support in Sweden.Great Northern War of 1700-1721.It became exhausting for both sides, but a moderate one of the monarchs of the truce did not agree.
Going to Russia's borders, the Swedish troops occupied the territory of the territory planning to move to Smolensk.In August 1708 the Swedes suffered several tactical defeats and decided to go to the Ukraine, with the support of Ivan Mazepa.But the vast majority of Ukrainian peasants and Cossacks simple Swedes perceived as an invader, providing them with widespread resistance.In June 1709 there was a battle of Poltava, which became a turning point in the war.Peter I and his generals defeated the Swedes.Charles and Mazepa fled to Turkey, but refused to sign the surrender.Thus, the Great Northern War 1700-1721, the main events which took place on the territory of Russia, Sweden was actually played.
third period of confrontation
From 1710-1718 gg.the third phase of confrontation between the two countries.Events Northern War of 1700-1721.this period was not less saturated.In 1710 it resumed its existence the Northern Alliance.And Sweden, in turn, was able to draw Turkey into the war.In 1710 it declared war on Russia, thereby delaying a large army for themselves and not letting Peter inflict a decisive blow to the Swedes.
At most, this step can be called a period of diplomatic wars, because the main battle took place on the sidelines.Britain was trying to weaken Russia and does not give it to invade Europe.And Russia, meanwhile, through political contacts with France.In 1718, it could have signed a peace agreement, but the sudden death of Charles XII during the siege of the fortress in Norway, led to the change of monarch, and for some time pushed the signing of the peace.Thus, the Great Northern War 1700-1721, briefly and conventionally divided into 4 stages, did not promise victory in Sweden as early as 1718, but the Queen Ulrika Eleonora was hoping for outside help.
final phase of military operations in the Northern War
final phase of military operations - 1718-1721 gg.- Described by historians as a passive period.Active military operations for three years was not conducted.British entry into the war on the side of Sweden has given confidence in their last opportunity to win.In order not to give Russia a foothold in the Baltic countries, the international community was prepared to delay the military conflict.But the real help British troops had no supporters, and the Russian fleet defeated the islands of Saaremaa and Grengam also several successful campaigns had Russian troops.The outcome was the signing of the Treaty of Nystad.
Results
Northern War 1700-1721 The Great Northern War, the main events which led to the complete defeat of Sweden, became the "window to Europe", which not only brought Russia to a new international level, but also provided an opportunity to compete on the world stage with developedEuropean hegemony.
Czarist Russia became an empire.Russia has gained recognition in the international arena.Joining indigenously Russian territory and access to the Baltic States took place.And the result was the establishment of new cities, including St. Petersburg.Significantly increased the naval potential of the state.Russia became a member of the international market.
