One of the famous changes made by him was disallowing the Russian nobles’ long beards and robes, which had been customary until that time. There are many cartoons depicting the tsar personally cutting off the beards of some of his nobles.

A key to moderning Russia was Peter’s “window to the west,” which would provide access to Western Europe and serve as a great symbol. This window was created with Saint Petersburg, Peter’s magnificent city the creation of which became possible after he conquered territories to the west of his inherited kingdom.

Peter also modernized the military of Russia, attempting to make it more efficient and effectual.

His political changes were not incredibly affective at the time, but they led the evolution of Russia through the centuries.