The history of the Baltic peoples. From subjects of the Livonian Order to independent states

The author, based on little -known historical documents and studies of a number of scientists, considers the development of the Baltic lands, now Latvia and Estonia, from the end of the XII to the beginning of the XX century. Particular attention is paid to the role of Germanic knights and German nobles, as well as churches, in the creation of statehood in these regions. It is shown how the influence of various powers was manifested, who dominated in different periods in the Baltic states. In this regard, the author of the Baltic Germans in relation to the Russian Empire, especially after its victory over the Swedes in the Northern War and the beginning of the reforms of Peter I., is of particular interest