Russian Infantry of the Great Northern War- Part 1

The Russian Army of the Great Northern War was very much the creation of Peter the Great.  In order to organise and train a modern army he had to overcome a rebellion by Russia’s traditional tax exempted Streltsi infantry regiments and political opposition from the Russian nobility.  His perseverance paid off and he went on to win the war.

The rank and file were well motivated as joining the army now meant freedom from serfdom for themselves and their families.

Russian regiments might change their uniform colour on an annual basis but green tended to predominate.

The abilities of the Russian infantry constantly improved through-out the Great Northern War. That said they never achieved the levels of disciplined drill found among the Swedes.   When ever possible they liked to fight from behind field defenses.

Although all of the regiments shown here contain pike men Russian infantry tactics emphasized fire power.

Almost all of the toys shown here are from Dixon here and there you can see the odd Roundway figure too.  The excellent flags are from Wayne Turner and are free to down load you can visit his blog here:

http://www.khanage.net.nz/wargaming/great-northern-war/gnw-standards/

More in part 2.