The Rise of Russia and Prussia: Crash Course European History

The video explores the rise of Russia and Brandenburg-Prussia in the 17th century, focusing on Tsar Peter the Great's reforms and military innovations. Peter's efforts to modernize Russia included Western influences and social changes, impacting serfs and society. Meanwhile, Brandenburg-Prussia, under the Hohenzollern family, strengthened its military and expanded its influence. The video highlights the complexities of political power and the varying effects of modernization.

Which two states are highlighted for their significant developments in the 17th century?

• England and the Netherlands

• Ottoman Empire and Persia

• Russia and Brandenburg-Prussia

• France and Spain

What was a key factor in Peter the Great's rise to power in Russia?

• His military conquests

• Support from various interest groups

• His alliance with the Ottoman Empire

• His direct lineage to the throne

What was one of Peter the Great's major reforms in Russia?

• Introducing a new currency

• Abolishing the military

• Creating a merit-based aristocracy

• Establishing a new religion

What city did Peter the Great build as a symbol of modernization?

• Moscow

• Kiev

• Warsaw

• St. Petersburg

How did Peter the Great's reforms affect the lives of serfs?

• Their conditions worsened

• They were allowed to join the military

• They were given land ownership

• They gained more freedom

What was a paradox in Peter the Great's rule?

• He was a democratic leader who ruled autocratically

• He was a religious leader who banned religion

• He was modernizing but also crude and violent

• He was a peaceful ruler who loved war

Which family led the rise of Brandenburg-Prussia?

• The Bourbons

• The Hohenzollerns

• The Romanovs

• The Habsburgs

What was a key strategy used by Brandenburg-Prussia to consolidate power?

• Forming alliances with France

• Building a strong military

• Expanding trade routes

• Promoting religious freedom

What does the term 'reinfeudation' refer to in the context of Brandenburg-Prussia?

• The tightening of serf obligations

• The liberation of serfs

• The establishment of new cities

• The expansion of trade

What was a significant outcome of the state-building efforts in Russia and Prussia?

• The shaping of future European politics

• The rise of Poland-Lithuania

• The decline of the Ottoman Empire

• The unification of Italy