Foreign affairs and wars: wars with Sweden and Turkey; involvement in European conflicts
Peter fought major wars against Sweden and Turkey to win Russia access to the sea. These wars also pulled Russia into wider European power struggles for the first time.
Real World
Peter's capture of Azov in 1696 and his victory at Poltava in 1709 are analogous to a landlocked country like modern-day Ethiopia seeking port access — control of coastline directly determines trade and military reach.
Exam Focus
Always specify dates and outcomes for each war; vague references to 'conflict with Sweden' will not score highly on mark schemes.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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