Episode 566: The Great Northern War: Slaughter on the Steppes (Part 3) Hosts: Tom Holland & Dominic Sandbrook
Release Date: May 18, 2025
Podcast: The Rest Is History by Goalhanger

Introduction

In the gripping final installment of their series on the Great Northern War, hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook delve into one of European history's most decisive battles: the Battle of Poltava. This episode meticulously unpacks the strategies, personalities, and aftermath that not only marked the fall of the Swedish Empire but also heralded the rise of Russia as a dominant European power.

Recap of the Great Northern War

Dominic Sandbrook [03:11]:
"The Great Northern War has been raging since 1700... Charles XII had invaded Russia in the summer of 1707, planning to reach Moscow and dictate terms to end the war there."

The series built up the context of the Great Northern War, highlighting the Swedish Empire's struggle against a coalition comprising Denmark, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and Russia. Charles XII's ambitious campaign into Russia set the stage for the climactic Battle of Poltava.

The Turning Point: Battle of Poltava

Dominic Sandbrook [04:11]:
"The final episode of this series... is one of the most decisive battles in European history. It's the death knell of the Swedish Empire, the birth of another, the Russian, and it redraws the map of Eastern and Northern Europe for centuries to come."

As the Swedish army, weakened by famine, discipline issues, and harsh winters, faces off against the superior Russian forces led by Peter the Great, the stakes are monumental. Charles XII, despite a severe foot injury and being outnumbered 2 to 1, remains determined to secure victory.

Notable Quote [06:08]:
"...it's a final showdown to decide this war once and for all." – Charles XII

The morning of June 27 saw the Swedes executing a bold attack plan that initially seemed promising. However, internal conflicts among Swedish commanders and the overwhelming Russian defense mechanisms, including fortified redoubts, shifted the battle's momentum.

Key Personalities and Their Decisions

Charles XII of Sweden:
A charismatic yet increasingly isolated leader, Charles XII's decision-making under dire circumstances underscores his character. His reluctance to rely on allies like the Cossacks highlights both his pride and the desperation of the Swedish position.

Peter the Great of Russia:
Peter's strategic acumen and resilience are forefronted as he capitalizes on the Swedish vulnerabilities. His leadership during and after the battle cements his role in transforming Russia into a European powerhouse.

Field Marshal Karl Gustav Reinskjold & Count Leuvenhaupt:
The discord between these Swedish commanders exemplifies the internal struggles faced by the Swedish army, further exacerbating their downfall.

Dominic Sandbrook [10:48]:
"Peter holds the upper hand for the first time in this story... because he has massive manpower, massive resources, he's on home turf."

The Battle Unfolds

Dominic Sandbrook [11:00]:
"As dusk falls, they make ready to strike the next morning... their artillery left behind due to speed and waterlogged gunpowder."

The Swedes' strategy to bypass Russian defenses by dividing into three divisions initially appears sound. However, miscommunications and unexpected Russian reinforcements lead to chaos and significant Swedish casualties.

Notable Quote [19:07]:
"About 2,000 of Rus's men are cut down or captured. So that means really about a third of the Swedish infantry have been annihilated from that point onwards."

The relentless Russian counterattacks and superior numbers eventually overwhelm the Swedes, leading to a catastrophic defeat marked by heavy losses and strategic failure.

Aftermath and Consequences

Dominic Sandbrook [33:04]:
"But it's arguably much more than that. It's the final stone in the foundation of Russia as a great power."

Peter the Great's victory at Poltava not only secures his hold over the Baltic but also paves the way for the establishment of St. Petersburg as Russia's new imperial capital. The Treaty of Nystad in 1721 officially ends the Great Northern War, marking the decline of Sweden and the rise of Russia.

Notable Quote [60:11]:
"Peter the Great, Father of the Fatherland and Emperor of all Russia."

The hosts discuss the long-term ramifications, including the shift in European power dynamics, the enduring legacy of Peter's reforms, and the profound impact on neighboring regions like Poland and the Ottoman Empire.

Counterfactual Scenarios

Exploring "what if" scenarios, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook ponder the potential alternate history had Charles XII emerged victorious at Poltava. The Swedish dominance in the Baltic could have persisted, altering the course of Westernization in Russia and European alliances for generations to come.

Conclusion

The Battle of Poltava stands as a testament to leadership, strategy, and the unpredictable tides of war. Through vivid storytelling and expert analysis, this episode encapsulates the essence of a pivotal moment that reshaped nations and set the stage for modern Europe.

Dominic Sandbrook [60:17]:
"Father, son relationships still to come... if his son Alexei is qualified to play that part, and if he's not, what Peter is going to do about it."

As the episode wraps up, listeners are left anticipating the final episode, which promises to delve into the succession crisis following Peter the Great's reign, setting the foundation for future geopolitical developments.

Notable Quotes Summary

• Charles XII on Battle Strategy [06:08]:
  "It's a final showdown to decide this war once and for all."

• Dominic on Russian Advantage [10:48]:
  "Peter holds the upper hand for the first time in this story... because he has massive manpower, massive resources, he's on home turf."

• Casualties at Point of Swedish Annihilation [19:07]:
  "About 2,000 of Rus's men are cut down or captured. So that means really about a third of the Swedish infantry have been annihilated from that point onwards."

• Peter the Great's Title [60:11]:
  "Peter the Great, Father of the Fatherland and Emperor of all Russia."

Final Thoughts

Episode 566 of The Rest Is History masterfully captures the chaos, heroism, and strategic depth of the Battle of Poltava. Through engaging dialogue and insightful commentary, Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how this single battle irrevocably changed the landscape of Europe.

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