Petar Veliki

Peter the Great by Kurt Kersten is one of the most famous biographies of the great Russian tsar and reformer, written in an accessible but historically informed style. The author depicts the life of Peter I from his youth to the creation of the Russian Empire as a European superpower, highlighting his exceptional energy, political acumen, and determination in implementing far-reaching reforms.

The book covers the key events of his reign – the modernization of state administration, the reorganization of the army and navy, the development of the economy, the expansion of education, and the opening of Russia to Western European influences. Special attention is paid to Peter's complex personality, his successes, contradictions, and the methods by which he achieved his goals.

Kersten writes not only a political biography, but also provides a vivid picture of Russian society at the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries, explaining the historical circumstances that shaped one of the most important European states. The work is therefore equally interesting to lovers of history, biographies, and political thought.

This edition is given special bibliographic value by the artistic design of Pavel Bihaly, a distinguished graphic designer, illustrator and editor of the Nolita library. His recognizable typography, thoughtful cover composition and contemporary graphic expression marked the appearance of numerous Nolita editions in the 1930s and significantly contributed to the development of modern book equipment in this region. It is precisely because of Bihaly's work that this edition is today particularly appreciated among collectors of old books and lovers of book art.