In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg Explore the tumultuous history of Imperial Russia, from its Viking origins to the rise of the Romanovs and the impact of the Mongols.

When did Russia truly become a significant player on the global stage, and what were the key events that solidified its status? Listen and discover how Imperial Russia grappled with its identity, its relationship with the West, and its long journey toward modernization

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WWI

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

00:00) Intro

(01:51) The Mongols and the Viking Influence

(04:36) The Post-Viking Period and the Mongol Yoke

(08:00) Russia's Lost Potential

(11:48) Moscow's Rise and the Third Rome

(19:19) The Tatar Raids and the Great Wall of Russia

(22:44) Key Russian Leaders and Their Legacy

(29:00) Expansion Eastward and the Cossacks

(35:00) Siberia's Colonization and Russia's Global Reach

(42:00) The Time of Troubles and the Rise of the Romanovs

(45:00) Peter the Great's Modernization

(53:00) The Rise of Industrialization and the Seeds of Revolution

(55:24) Wrap

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• History of Russia by Orlando Figg
• A History of Russia, Central Asia, Mongolia by David Christian
• War, Peace, and War by Peter Turchin
• The Rise of the West by William H. McNeil