The Romanovs were the second imperial dynasty to rule Russia, reigning from 1613 to 1917. Their ascension to power marked the end of the Time of Troubles, a period of political instability and social upheaval following the demise of the Rurik dynasty. Michael Romanov, the first of the line, was elected Tsar, initiating a period of consolidation and expansion for the Russian state. For example, Peter the Great, a prominent member of the dynasty, implemented significant reforms to modernize Russia, emulating Western European models.
This period is significant for AP World History students because it represents a pivotal era in Russia’s development as a major global power. Understanding the actions and policies of its rulers, along with the social and economic transformations that occurred, is crucial for analyzing Russia’s role in global events. The dynastys policies had far-reaching consequences, including territorial expansion, increased centralization of power, and complex interactions with other empires, influencing the balance of power in Europe and Asia. Furthermore, its eventual collapse in 1917, triggered by World War I and internal dissent, paved the way for the rise of the Soviet Union, profoundly shaping the 20th century.
