Introduction: Russia at war, 1762-1825 -- The military estate: size and deployment -- The lower ranks: conscription and community -- The officer corps: service and challenge to the state -- The cost: expenditure and income -- The cost: agriculture, industry, and trade -- The impact: conflict with civilians in peace and war -- The state: administration, law, and magic -- The expansion of the state: conflict, assimilation, and identity -- Rulers and armies: warfare, image, culture, and identity -- The military colonies -- Conclusion: militarization and modernization?