History
The Russian Imperial Navy was built up by Peter the Great in the late 1600s. He wanted Russia to have a strong presence on the seas. It became a powerful force that protected Russian borders and helped the country grow its influence across the world. The navy grew even larger over the next two hundred years as technology improved.
By the time World War I started in 1914, the navy was busy guarding the Baltic and Black Seas. They had to deal with tough battles against Germany and the Ottoman Empire. Sailors faced many challenges during these fights, including a lack of supplies and trouble with old ships. The war put a big strain on the country and its military.
In 1917, the Russian Revolution happened, which changed the government forever. This event eventually led to the end of the Imperial Navy as it was known. Many ships were renamed or taken over by new groups during the fight for power. After the Soviet Union was formed, the old navy was replaced by the new Soviet Navy.

