What made Russia so powerful in the first place?

SW-User Best Comment

Russia was, for centuries, behind the rest of Europe. It was poorer, less developed, less powerful. But it was large, highly populated, and always had aspirations of grandeur. Some of these were realized by 18th century rulers like Peter and Catherine the Great who built St. Petersberg and helped bring Russia into the larger European sphere. But by the early 20th century, Russia was still behind. They still had an archaic peasant/serf system that, coupled with the devastation of WWI, led to increased economic turmoil and the Bolshevik revolution. I think Russians have never been content with being second-class, they've always wanted power that matches the size of their population and land. They've gotten it to some extent, but they've skipped steps, leading to many of the problems they have today.

This is a short summary, but it's what I've gathered for the history I've read.

This comment is hidden. Show Comment

SW-User

It’s the attitude and upbringing of the Russians. They don’t let you dodge draft. They grill you to get in. They are brutal and brutality is their way. When they have a goal they don’t stop till they attain it.