Professor David Herman

Peter the Great's Table of Ranks

In Peter the Great's efforts to Westernize Russia in the 18th Century, the country underwent many changes. Among these  included creating a "ranking system" based on government service, as opposed to family history. that gave people privileges based on their ability and position within the Table of Ranks. All those associated with the government had a rank and this rank proved to be very important to one's daily life. The table of ranks is below. It is worth noting that after one achieved the 8th rank, hereditary nobility came with it. That is to say that if you were to reach the 8th rank, this level of ranking would be given to your heirs. Thus this 8th rank was very sought after.

1. Chancellor