The Rest Is History 564. The Great Northern War: The Battle of the Baltic (Part 1)
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May 11, 2025 Dive into the Great Northern War, where the fierce rivalry between Sweden's Charles XII and Russia's Peter the Great shook Europe. Discover early miscalculations that led to brutal losses for Denmark. Uncover the havoc caused by Peter's Cossacks in the Baltic and the surprisingly romantic twist of Peter’s marriage to a farm girl. Explore innovative military tactics, the strategic ambitions of both leaders, and the transformative impacts on their nations during this tumultuous period.
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Charles XII's Charismatic Military Role
- Charles XII of Sweden is a charismatic and obsessive military leader, comparable to Peter the Great.
- His personality and wars reshape Northern and Eastern Europe significantly.
Russia's Baltic Access Problem
- Russia lacked a reliable Baltic seaport, relying on Archangel which froze for half the year.
- Gaining access to the Baltic was a primary strategic goal for Peter the Great.
Swedish Military and Economic Strength
- Sweden, despite its small population, built a strong empire through rigorous military organization and exports.
- Stockholm became a major port, fueling Sweden's military efforts.