Absolutism and Ruling Class: The Formation of the Russian Political Order, 1700-1825

This is the first comprehensive examination of the Russian ruling elite and its political institutions during an important period of state building, from the emergence of Russia on the stage of world politics around 1700 to the consolidation of its position after the victory over Napoleon. Instead of focusing on the great rulers of the period—Peter, Catherine, and Alexander—the work examines the nobility which alone could make their power effective. LeDonne not only gives a full chronological…