The Era of Palace Revolutions: Russian History from 1725 to 1762

Have you ever wondered how a massive empire survived decades of sudden coups, secret court conspiracies, and rapid shifts in leadership? This course guides you through the complex political landscape of 18th-century Russia between 1725 and 1762. You will transition from seeing this era as a chaotic gap in history to understanding it as a dynamic period of institutional evolution, global diplomacy, and cultural development. \n\nWhat you'll learn: \n- Analyze the systemic causes and hidden mechanisms behind the palace coups following the death of Peter I. \n- Examine the influential roles played by the imperial guards, royal favorites, and competing court factions. \n- Trace the reigns and policies of Catherine I, Anna Ioannovna, Elizabeth Petrovna, and Peter III. \n- Understand how administrative systems and state governance evolved despite constant leadership changes. \n- Evaluate Russia's foreign policy, military conflicts, and diplomatic alliances during this turbulent era. \n- Apply modern historical frameworks to explain why this period was marked by cultural and economic growth rather than decline. \n\nWe begin with the foundational crisis of succession and the legacy of Peter I's reforms. From there, you will read through chronologically structured modules detailing each monarch's reign, analyzing primary source perspectives and institutional shifts through written case studies. This course is designed for history beginners, students, and lifelong learners with no prior knowledge of Russian imperial history required. Start reading today to uncover the secrets, scandals, and statecraft of this fascinating historical epoch.