Charles XII

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Charles XII (1682–1718) King of Sweden (1697–1718). His father, Charles XI, trained him in all aspects of administration, and he became king when 14 years old. Charles XII was one of the greatest military leaders in European history. He defeated Denmark, Poland, Saxony and Russia in a series of brilliant campaigns. Leading the troops, he destroyed the army of Peter I (the Great) at Narva (1700). In 1708 he renewed his assault on Russia, but his army, depleted by the severe winter, was decisively defeated at Poltava (1709). He fled to the Ottomans and persuaded the Sultan to attack Russia (1711). The Sultan turned against him and, in disguise, he escaped back to Sweden and devoted his energy to the domestic economy. Weakened by war and opposed by many enemies, he was killed, while fighting in Norway, and succeeded by his sister, Ulrica Eleanora.

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Charles XII