565. The Great Northern War: Revenge of the Cossacks (Part 2)

This episode explores the events of the Great Northern War, specifically focusing on Charles XII of Sweden's ill-fated invasion of Russia and Ukraine. Against the backdrop of Peter the Great's efforts to modernize Russia and secure access to the Baltic, Charles XII launches a campaign to depose Peter, initially meeting with surprising success. However, the scorched earth tactics employed by the Russians, combined with the harsh winter, severely hamper the Swedish advance, leading to significant losses and logistical challenges. More significantly, Charles's decision to turn south into Ukraine, enticed by the promise of support from Cossack Hetman Ivan Mazepa, proves disastrous when the Russians destroy Mazepa's stronghold and supplies. As the brutal winter of 1708-1709 decimates the Swedish army, Charles's recklessness and unwavering belief in his divine mandate blind him to the deteriorating situation. Ultimately, the episode sets the stage for the decisive Battle of Poltava, foreshadowing a major turning point in the war and a shift in the balance of power in Northern and Eastern Europe.