Czar Peter the Great was the ruler of Russia from 1682 until his death in 1725. He is best known for modernizing and westernizing the country, transforming it into a major European power. Peter implemented various reforms in government, military, and culture, including the establishment of a navy and the introduction of new technologies. Peter the Great also founded the city of Saint Petersburg in 1703, which became the new capital of Russia. His reign marked significant changes in Russian society, including the promotion of education and the arts, as well as the reduction of the power of the nobility.