State and Religion in the Russian Empire: Control and Unification (1725–1762)

The relationship between state power and religious institutions is a critical factor in imperial history. Understanding how rulers employed faith to manage diverse populations reveals fundamental strategies of control and integration. By analyzing the volatile period between 1725 and 1762, you will gain a clear understanding of the complex political dynamics that drove imperial religious policy, allowing you to critically assess the long-term impact of state-mandated unification efforts. What you'll learn: * Understand the core motivations behind 18th-century imperial religious policies, focusing on security and state power consolidation. * Analyze the interplay between political pragmatism and repressive measures used to control ethnic and religious minorities. * Examine the mechanisms employed by the state to promote ideological unification across a vast, multi-ethnic territory. * Practice evaluating historical evidence and historiographical debates surrounding the era of 1725–1762. * Learn the foundational definitions of key concepts like confessional state, integration, and political theology in an imperial context. This course begins with foundational concepts of state-church relations and then dives into specific case studies from the mid-18th century. You will read detailed explanations of the key legislative acts and political figures that shaped this era. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in European history, political science, or the history of state control. No prior knowledge of Russian or imperial history is required. Start reading and deepen your understanding of how empires maintain power through ideology.