History's Greatest Battles
The battles that made us -- a detailed, entertaining, and tangent-free program about history's greatest battles. In this program, we embark on a journey through the constancy of human conflict, where the fates of nations and the course of history have been decided on the battlefield. This program delves into our world-history's most significant and seminal battles, exploring not just the events themselves but their profound impact on the world timeline we live in today. Each episode is meticulously crafted by ardent and dedicated history fans with a passion for military history and an appreciation for the art of storytelling. Join us as we unravel the strategies, heroics, and consequences that have shaped civilizations and forged the destiny of entire continents.
History's Greatest Battles
The Battle of Poltava, 1709, Russia Destroys Sweden Becoming Europe's Dominant North-Eastern Power Player
The crushing defeat of Sweden signaled the twilight of its imperial dominance, marking the irreversible decline of a once-great northern kingdom. In its place, Russia ascended—no longer a distant, peripheral force, but a burgeoning empire whose power now demanded the full attention of Europe. Peter’s victory at Poltava had reshaped the balance of the continent, heralding Russia’s rise as a formidable power on the European stage, an empire poised to cast its shadow over the centuries to come.
Poltava. 28th of June, 1709.
Swedish Forces: 17,000 soldiers, four cannon.
Russian Forces: 44,000 soldiers, 100 cannon.
Additional Reading and Research:
- Fuller, J.F.C. A Military History of the Western World.
- Creasy, Edward. Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World.
- Robert, Michael. Sweden's Age of Greatness, 1632-1718.
- Hatton, R.M. Charles XII of Sweden.