Peter The Great

Peter The Great's Cruelty and It's Effect on His Power Peter the Great's reign over Russia paved the way for Russia's future as a world power. His many reforms and westernization of the country influenced millions and left a lasting legacy. The complexity of Peter is astonishing, his intellectual curiosity, combined with his hasty temper and cruelty caused a tumultuous but successful reign as Tsar. His brilliance as a ruler profoundly effected Russian society but …

…absolute power when he allowed his own son, Alexis, to be executed for treason in 1718. Peter's harsh decision showed that he would not allow his power to be threatened, even by his own flesh and blood. All of those who betrayed him were punished harshly for their acts. Peter made sure that Russia's people feared him by savagely dealing with the opposition. Peter's cruelty allowed him to make his famous reforms and westernize his country.