Põhjasõda

The Northern War, known in Estonian as Põhjasõda, was a conflict that took place between 1700 and 1721, primarily involving Russia and Sweden, but also impacting much of Northern and Eastern Europe. The war was a significant part of the larger Great Northern War, which involved various European powers and was centered around the struggle for dominance in the Baltic region.

The Northern War began when Peter the Great of Russia, seeking to expand his empire and gain access to the Baltic Sea, launched an invasion of Swedish-held territories. Sweden, under the leadership of King Charles XII, was initially successful in repelling Russian advances and even invaded Russia itself. However, the Swedish forces were ultimately defeated at the Battle of Poltava in 1709, a turning point that marked the beginning of Sweden's decline as a major European power.

The war had profound consequences for the region. Russia emerged as a dominant force, gaining significant territories and establishing itself as a major European power. Sweden, on the other hand, lost its dominance in the Baltic and much of its territory in the region. The conflict also had a significant impact on the Baltic states, with Estonia and Latvia coming under Russian control.

The Northern War was characterized by its brutality and the severe hardships endured by the civilian population. The conflict resulted in widespread destruction, famine, and disease, leading to a significant loss of life. The war's legacy continues to be felt in the region, with its impact still evident in the political and cultural landscape of Northern and Eastern Europe. The Treaty of Nystad in 1721 formally ended the war, solidifying Russia's gains and marking the end of Sweden's era of great power status.