Great Northern War - 3 Minute History

The Great Northern War began with Sweden's expansion into the Baltic, prompting a coalition of Russia, Denmark, Norway, and Saxony to declare war. Sweden initially succeeded, defeating Denmark and Russia. However, Russia's resilience and strategic retreats led to Sweden's defeat at the Battle of Poltava. Charles XII fled to the Ottoman Empire but returned to Sweden, launching unsuccessful campaigns. The war ended with Sweden losing significant territories, marking the rise of the Russian Empire and the decline of the Swedish Empire.

Which countries formed a coalition against Sweden at the start of the Great Northern War?

• Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Switzerland

• Russia, Denmark, Norway, and Saxony

• England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales

• France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy

What was the outcome of the Battle of Narva?

• The Swedes captured a great deal of Russian artillery

• The Danish forces were victorious

• The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth gained territory

• The Russians defeated the Swedes

What major challenge did Charles XII face during his invasion of Russia?

• Lack of support from the Ottoman Empire

• Internal rebellion within Sweden

• A harsh winter that decimated his army

• A surprise attack by the Danish forces

Where did Charles XII flee after his defeat at the Battle of Poltava?

• France

• The Ottoman Empire

• England

• Spain

What was a significant result of the peace treaties following the Great Northern War?

• Russia emerged as a dominant power in the region

• Sweden regained all lost territories

• The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth expanded its influence

• Denmark became the leading naval power