Kropotkin's Background and Early Influences

Peter Kropotkin was born into aristocracy in Moscow in 1842, where he inherited the title of prince. From an early age, he was influenced by liberal ideas, particularly from his French and German tutors, which sparked his interest in political reform. Kropotkin rejected the trappings of his aristocratic life, choosing to pursue his academic interests, particularly in geography, and embarked on expeditions in Siberia during the 1860s. This journey not only aligned with the Russian imperial agenda but also profoundly shaped his political views as he engaged with local populations and learned from their practices.