Foreign affairs: intervention in Poland; failure to secure Crimea; involvement in Seven Years War
Between 1725 and 1762, Russia pursued an ambitious foreign policy. It meddled in Polish politics, failed to take Crimea from the Ottomans, and fought in the Seven Years War across Europe.
Real World
Russia backing August III in the 1733 Polish succession crisis mirrors how the US and USSR backed rival leaders in Cold War proxy states — great powers use weaker neighbours as buffers and spheres of influence.
Exam Focus
For 'how far' questions on foreign policy success, measure each episode against Russia's stated objective — Crimea failure and Seven Years War withdrawal show clear limits.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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