ABSTRACT
The economic, military, administrative, and other reforms so hastily, even feverishly, introduced by Peter right after the Narva defeat were supposed to bear fruit on the battlefield. Otherwise their sense would be lost. But the outcome of war is decided not only by the quantity of cannon and cannonballs, provisions, and recruits. War depends on both the success of long marches and the invaluable experience of fast-moving cavalry skirmishes and prolonged sieges. War is a multiyear duel of the talents of commanders and the ingenuity of diplomats; it is a test of the determination of soldiers and the loyalty of allies. War is also a moment rushing past fortune that must be seized.
