Pedro el Grande, also known as Peter the Great, was the Tsar of Russia from 1682 until his death in 1725. He is best known for his efforts to modernize and westernize Russia, transforming it into a major European power. His reign included significant reforms in government, military, and culture, as well as the establishment of Saint Petersburg as the new capital. Pedro implemented various policies to improve education and industry, encouraging the adoption of Western technologies and practices. He also expanded Russian territory through military campaigns, notably against Sweden in the Great Northern War, which helped secure Russia's status as a formidable nation.