Which statement best explains how Peter the Great and Catherine the Great used serfs to consolidate power?
Both used the serfs to expand their empires.
Both used the serfs to build cities.
Both used the serfs to gain favor with the nobles.
Both used the serfs to expand Russia’s military.
Both used the serfs to expand Russia’s military.
Both Peter the Great and Catherine the Great used the serfs to expand their empires.
The statement that best explains how Peter the Great and Catherine the Great used serfs to consolidate power is: "Both used the serfs to expand Russia's military."
To understand this, let's break it down:
Peter the Great and Catherine the Great were both influential rulers of Russia, known for their efforts to modernize and strengthen the country. Consolidating power involved maintaining control over various aspects of society, including the military.
The serfs, who were peasants bound to the land and owned by nobles, constituted a significant portion of the Russian population. Both Peter the Great and Catherine the Great recognized the potential of utilizing this large labor force for military purposes.
By using serfs to expand Russia's military, Peter and Catherine were able to increase their military capabilities and extend the boundaries of the Russian Empire. The serfs were often conscripted into the army, providing manpower for both defensive and offensive campaigns. This utilization of serfs helped in strengthening Russia's military might, which in turn enhanced the rulers' power and influence both within and outside the country.
In summary, both Peter the Great and Catherine the Great used serfs to expand Russia's military, which played a crucial role in their efforts to consolidate power.