This paper investigates the rule of Tsar Peter the Great of Russia, and debates whether or not he was a great ruler. The answer will be based on an analysis of his reforms, and how he affected the lives of ordinary Russians during his reign. The central argument of the paper is that Peter the Great was indeed a great ruler, considering the long-lasting and broad reforms that he implemented. This essay will outline some, and only some of Peter the Great's achievements, considering how vast and multi-layered they were. Space constraints forbid us from going into greater detail on the bulk of his reforms. However, some of the main ones, namely those to do with education, the Orthodox Church, and the restructuring of the state will be outlined and discussed below. 11 pgs. Bibliography lists 6 sources.
