WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Peter’s visits to the West impressed upon him the notion that European customs were in several respects superior to Russian traditions. Unlike most of his predecessors and successors, he attempted to follow Western European traditions, fashions, and tastes.

Detailed explanation-2: -He embarked on the Great Embassy beginning in 1697 where he traveled incognito to learn more about culture and technology of different European nations so he could bring new ideas back to his home in Russia . Among other things, he wanted Russians to adopt more “modern” clothing fashions.

Detailed explanation-3: -His social reforms included the requirement of Western fashion in his court (including facial hair for men), attempts to end arranged marriages, and the introduction of the Julian Calendar in 1700. One of Peter’s most audacious goals was reducing the influence of the boyars, or the feudal elite class.

Detailed explanation-4: -Inspired by his trip to the West, Peter resolved that Russia would compete with Europe on both military and commercial terms. Peter’s goal of westernization, of using western Europe as a model for change, was not an end in itself. Peter saw it as a way to make Russia stronger. many of his people disagreed.