Russian History: The Era of Palace Revolutions

The 18th century in Russian history was defined by dramatic power shifts, court intrigue, and the decisive political influence of the royal guards. Understanding this turbulent era is essential for mastering imperial history and building strong analytical skills in social studies. By working through structured readings and historical analysis exercises, you will gain a clear grasp of the key figures, political institutions, and social dynamics that shaped Russian autocracy following the reign of Peter the Great. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational historical terms, legal succession decrees, and key timelines. - Analyze the reigns and policies of monarchs from Catherine I to Catherine the Great. - Explore the political influence of imperial guard regiments and noble court factions. - Examine critical state institutions like the Supreme Privy Council and Cabinet of Ministers. - Practice evaluating cause-and-effect relationships in political power transitions. - Identify the economic and cultural impact of these power shifts on Russian society. The course begins with core terminology, background context, and foundational definitions before moving into chronological coverage of each power transition. You will progress through structured text lessons and reading exercises that reinforce historical reasoning. This course is tailored for middle and high school students, exam preparing learners, and history enthusiasts seeking a beginner-friendly foundation in 18th-century Russian history. No prior specialized knowledge is required. Start reading today to build your historical knowledge and master this crucial period.