PETER THE GREAT'S DISASTROUS DEFEAT: The Swedish Victory at Narva, 1700

1-245780

Examines the Battle of Narva, where Charles XII of Sweden defeated Peter the Great, showcasing new research and tactics. Describes the events and tactics that led up to and resulted in the Swedish victory, presents new research on both the siege and battle, and explains the continued development of the Swedish army under King Charles XII. Contains 45 black and white illustrations, 36 black and white photos, 24 pages of color plates, 3 maps, and 7 tables.

Swedish military might and regional power had expanded immensely during the seventeenth century. A series of successful conquests had transformed the little northern kingdom of Sweden into a great regional power, centered on the Baltic Sea. Having already successfully invaded Denmark and forced King Frederick of Denmark and Norway to withdraw from the war, King Charles turned his attention to the eastern front and Russia.

With the help of a blizzard and with the wind at their back, the Swedes attacked and broke through the Russian defenses. Panicking, the Russians fled and ultimately surrendered to King Charles. It was a crushing defeat. Tsar Peter lost the entire army, including most senior commanders who fell into captivity, too. The battle had the immediate effect of the Russians evacuating the whole of Ingria.