Gentry diplomas in 18th century Russia

This book focuses on the history of diplomas, blazons, and titles that elevated select Russian subjects to the rank of nobility in the 18th century. From 1707 to 1801 651 diploma were generated by Tsars’ decrees. Peter the Great established the practice of granting to his favorites, who showed merit on battlefields, in diplomacy, in development of the country’s economics and culture, or just in pleasing him with their wit, the titles that resembled similar edicts issued in the West in the 11th-13th century (designating barons, counts, princes). This practice was both a way to create a higher rank for able people and a method of bringing the Tsar to the level of Western monarchs and, in particular, of the Roman Emperor. Throughout the period being considered, diplomas were regarded as an efficient way to regulate foreign and domestic politics, court life, public and military service. The second part of the book contains the full list of diplomas. Bibliographic references Name index.