Peter I, the Great
Peter I, the Great (1672–1725), consolidated autocracy in Russia and played a major role in bringing his country into the European state system. Russia became the largest state in the world by Peter's time. He studied modern tactics and fortifications and built a strong army of 300,000. In 1697–1698, he became the first Russian prince to ever visit the West. In celebration of his conquests, Peter assumed the title of emperor.