Contributor: Roxann Penny. Lesson ID: 12370
Do you have a nickname, or do you have one for someone else? Nicknames usually tell something obvious about the person. Peter the Great was great in many ways, but not so hot in others. Find out more!
Meet Peter the Great — famous Russian czar.
. . . but what was so great about him?
Peter the Great, or Peter I, was an important Russian ruler, or czar.
He was born June 9, 1672. His full name was Peter Alekseyevich Romanov, but he is mostly known as Peter the Great. During his rule, Peter was instrumental in transforming Russia from an underdeveloped country into a modern state. He introduced new technologies to the Russian people, and was responsible for the first Russian newspaper.
Can you name the Russian city that was founded by Peter? If you said St. Petersburg, then you are correct. St. Petersburg is the second-largest city in Russia. You should know that despite his many accomplishments, Peter the Great was not considered a kind leader.
To learn more about Peter the Great and his accomplishments, watch this video presentation, Peter the Great (discovery), by Discovery Education. When you are finished with the video presentation, reflect on what you have learned, then discuss the following questions with your parent or teacher:
Once you are done with your discussion, explore the Got It? section to learn more about this transformative leader.