Russia's Wars of Emergence, 1460-1730Russia's Wars of Emergence Carol Belkin Stevens Russia's emergence as a Great Power in the eighteenth century is usually attributed to Peter I's radical programme of 'Westernising' reforms. But the Russian military did not simply copy European armies. Adapting the tactics of its neighbours on both sides, Russiacreated a powerful strategy of its own, integrating steppe defence with European concerns. In Russia's Wars of Emergence, Carol Belkin Stevens examines the social and political factors underpinning Muscovite military history, the eventual success of the Russian Empire and the sacrifices made for power.
Russian governments strove to muster the scattered resources of a vast empire over several centuries. Its eighteenth-century army grew out of a legacy of concerns with political consolidation, noble social status, and the demands of both the long steppe frontiers and east European conflicts. The Russian empire eventually succeeded, not just in competing with Europe, but also in dominating the Eurasian steppe. However, the price was social rigidity, cultural tension and limited state power.
Putting Peter the Great's military success into historical context, Stevens covers over 300 years of Russian history. Including a glossary, maps and a comprehensive chronology, Russia's Wars of Emergence is a thorough, readable account of this fascinating period.
Carol Belkin Stevens is an Associate Professor at ColgateUniversity, Hamilton, New York, specialising in early modern Russia. She is the author of Soldiers on the Steppe (1996) and has been published in numerous journals including Russian History.
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