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Period: to
18th Century
During the 18th century -
Peter the Great
Peter the Great discovers St. Petersburg. The location is extremely important because the city is built along the Neva River, which quickly leads to expansion of the city due to the waterway access, but also causes problem within the city. For example, the city is vulnerable to flooding due to the wind driving the currents upstream. Image: http://saint-petersburg-russia.org/st-petersburg-18th-century/ -
Shipyard Industrialization
Early on, St. Petersburg becomes "the country's principal industrial center, at first for shipbuilding and engineering and later for textile," (Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia). In fact, by 1726, "St. Petersburg was handling 90 prcent of Russia's foreign trade," (Britannica Encyclopedia). Image: http://www.wga.hu/support/viewer/z.html -
Elizabeth Petrovna
Elizabeth Petrovna succeeds her father, Peter the Great. Elizabeth is a fine example of beauty during the 18th century in St. Petersburg, Russia. She is well aware of her good looks, and becomes notorious for them. Image: http://saint-petersburg-russia.org/st-petersburg-18th-century/ -
The Imperial Academy of the Most Distinguished Arts
The "Imperial Academy of the Most Distinguished Arts" is founded in St. Petersburg. The academy focuses on professionalizing sculptue, painting, and architecture to "further...Russian artists in all three disciplines." Empress Elizabeth lays the foundation for the program and Catherine the Great later establishes the building (Blakesley 802). Image: http://www.saint-petersburg.com/buildings/academy-or-arts-building/ -
The Hermitage Theater
The Hermitage Theater is established by Catherine the Great. Catherine the Great makes several contributions to the arts. The theater becomes her home during the time she spends collecting artwork. Soon, the theater becomes "a glorious showcase of Russian Enlightenment," (Dianina 631). Image: http://www.balticwind-spb.okis.ru/Theaters.html
