Landrat Books: Characterising a Source and Its Potential

This article considers Landrat books compiled between 1715 and 1720, which contain the results of last census homesteads carried out by Russian state. Even though a comprehensive study has not been conducted, scepticism prevails when it comes to reliability their results. The author argues that there are no grounds for such scholarly scepticism. materials have great potential. reason distrust data is they often compared with 1710 census, was badly conducted. Historians also point transition poll tax caused authorities’ lack confidence in work Landrats. However, this case. due fact 1715–1720 made clear government had change principle methods collection (to increase taxes). focuses on potential as valuable historical source. Particular attention paid social economic information. refers book Tula. As result, concludes that, regardless extent may be considered complete accurate, reflect real socio-economic processes taking place Russia under Peter Great. practical purpose very significant; although these documents were dedicated specifically service population, inevitably tell story large group; also, lot history nobility. censuses, together “fairytales,” register extracts, other kind, can help recreate overall picture important changes lives provincial elite time