Peter I of Russia

Peter I was born to Tsar Alexis I and his second wife, Natalya Naryshkina, in the Kremlin, Moscow. His birth marked the beginning of a new era in Russian history.

At the age of 10, Peter I was proclaimed co-Tsar alongside his half-brother Ivan V after the death of his father, Tsar Alexis I. The regency was initially held by his sister, Sophia Alekseyevna.

Peter I, with the support of the Streltsy and the populace, overthrew the regency of his half-sister Sophia Alekseyevna, taking full control of the government and beginning his personal rule.

Peter I led the First Azov Campaign against the Ottoman Empire, aiming to secure a warm-water port for Russia. Despite initial setbacks, this campaign marked the beginning of Russia's expansionist policies.

Peter I embarked on the Grand Embassy, a major diplomatic and educational mission to Western Europe. He traveled incognito, learning about shipbuilding and modern technologies, which influenced his reforms in Russia.

Peter I initiated the Great Northern War against Sweden, aiming to gain access to the Baltic Sea. This conflict lasted 21 years and significantly expanded Russian territory and influence.

Peter I founded the city of St. Petersburg on the Gulf of Finland, which became the new capital of Russia. The city was designed to be a 'window to the West' and a symbol of modernization.

Peter I officially moved the capital of Russia from Moscow to St. Petersburg, solidifying the city's importance and his vision for a modern, European-oriented Russia.

Peter I was proclaimed Emperor of Russia, marking the official transformation of the Tsardom of Russia into the Russian Empire. This title reflected his achievements and the expanded role of Russia on the global stage.

Peter I died in St. Petersburg after a brief illness. His reign had transformed Russia into a major European power through extensive reforms in administration, the military, and culture.