The Educational Differentiation of the Russian Nobility during the Reign of Elizabeth

This article analyses the educational differentiation of nobility during reign Elizabeth expressed in status their property (number “souls”); geographical location estates; institutions where they were sent; and age when began education. It is based on a wide array historical sources, among which archival records from collections Russian State Archive Ancient Acts. The data registration gentry supplemented by materials (The Noble Land Cadet Corps, Naval artillery engineering schools, Gymnasium Saint Petersburg Academy Sciences). demonstrates career achievements; establishes schools gave higher percentage students who replenished elite Empire. median value estate for all was 20 souls, including those did not have peasants. poorest representatives “noble proletariat” garrison more than half whom peasants at all. highest serf-ownership Corps. Average big noble landowners (owners hundreds thousands “souls”) studied generals families major middle-rank also graduates presented figures clearly show preferences different layers nobility, strategies, results advancement.