Question

which of the following actions best illustrates peter the great’s policy of westernization in russia? a. he closed russian borders to foreign trade to protect local industries. b. he forced russian nobles to shave their traditional beards and wear european - style clothing. c. he strengthened the political power of the eastern orthodox church to unify the people. 9. explain the similarities and differences in the methods used by louis xiv of france and peter the great of russia to establish their absolute power.

Explanation:

First Sub - Question (Multiple - Choice)

Peter the Great's Westernization policy in Russia aimed at adopting Western European culture and practices. Option A is incorrect as closing borders would be isolationist, not Westernizing. Option C is incorrect as he actually brought the Orthodox Church under state control, reducing its power. Option B: Forcing nobles to shave beards (a traditional Russian feature) and wear European - style clothing is a clear example of implementing Western cultural practices, which is part of Westernization.

Similarities:

• Centralization of Power: Both Louis XIV of France and Peter the Great worked to centralize power in their hands. Louis XIV weakened the power of the nobility and made himself the center of the French government (the "Sun King" concept). Peter the Great reduced the power of the boyars (Russian nobles) and established a more centralized administrative system.
• Use of Bureaucracy: They both developed bureaucratic systems to help them rule. Louis XIV had a system of intendants to govern the provinces, and Peter the Great created a new administrative structure for Russia.
• Cultural and Social Control: Both tried to control the cultural and social aspects of their realms. Louis XIV used the court at Versailles to regulate noble behavior and promote a certain cultural standard. Peter the Great imposed Western - style cultural changes (like clothing, hairstyles) on the Russian nobility.

Differences:

• Cultural Source of Imitation: Louis XIV was building on and enhancing French culture and the existing feudal - bureaucratic system. Peter the Great was imitating Western European (especially Dutch and German) culture and systems, as Russia was more "backward" in terms of Western European standards at the time.
• Religious Aspect: Louis XIV had a close relationship with the Catholic Church (though he also controlled it), using it to legitimize his rule. Peter the Great brought the Russian Orthodox Church under state control and reduced its influence, while also promoting a more secular approach in some ways.
• Geographical and External Focus: Louis XIV's focus was more on European power politics and expanding French territory in Europe. Peter the Great was focused on opening Russia to the West, both culturally and geographically (e.g., building St. Petersburg as a "window to the West" and fighting for access to the Baltic Sea).

Answer:

B. He forced Russian nobles to shave their traditional beards and wear European - style clothing.

Second Sub - Question (Explanation)