The Tools of the “Soft Power” of the British Colonialists in Russia in the 16th — 18th Centuries

Referring to the concept of “hard” and “soft power”, introduced into scientific circulation by the American scientist J. Nye, the author analyzes the tools of “soft power” used by the British colonialists in Russia in the 16th — 18th centuries. In the article examines the forms of “soft power” (widespread involvement of British specialists, bribery, educational and cultural programs, Freemasonry), its agents (Russian monarchs and their inner circle), as well as the consequences of the British using such tools in Russia (concessions in foreign policy in the interests of Great Britain, the emergence of anglomania and anglophilia in the political environment elites, the moral division of society). The English influence in the cultural life of Russia, which became apparent in the 16th century, began to progress noticeably in the following centuries. Tsar Peter I, whose reform activities were based on the English “model”, turned out to be particularly susceptible to it. The author comes to the conclusion that the English influence is extended exclusively to the upper strata of Russian society, the bulk of it remained true to their faith, traditions and way of life. Although the British failed to turn Russia into their colony, their soft power played a destructive role in the fate of the state. The split of Russian society that began in the 18th century was not only not overcome in the following centuries, but deepened even further, which eventually led to the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1917.