A firm Tsar known for his harsh and autocratic tactics. He implemented many reforms that westernized Russia and resolved to make Russia rival other European nations. He exerted his power by lassoing the church and nobility into his control.

Also established St. Petersburg and won wars against the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Sweden that laid the foundation for the creation of the Imperial Russian Navy. He was reportedly a giant—6’8” feet tall—which was very unusually tall at the time. 