Peter the Great's reign saw the explosion of Russia onto the European scene at the beginning of the 18th century. Since then he has become a legendary figure as well as the subject of abiding controversy. This book answers key questions about his territorial expansion and domestic reforms. It outlines existing controversies and enables the reader to consider the views of a range of historians - Russian, English and American. The author avoids straight narrative and analyzes issues that students are expected to address in their essays. The book also provides an introduction to further reading. "Lancaster Pamphlets" is a series initiated and edited by members of the History Department of the University of Lancaster. It offers concise and up-to-date treatments of major historical topics covered by the `A' level syllabus and by introductory courses in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.