#OnThisDay in 1859 the Great Bell, more commonly known as Big Ben, chimed for the first time. In 1967 John Noakes headed to Westminster to learn more about the inner workings of one of the world’s most famous clocks. | BBC Archive

Peter's reforms transformed Russia's military and culture. He established a modern navy and army with Western tactics, a critical edge in the Great Northern War against Sweden. His victory at the Battle of Poltava in 1709 and the subsequent Treaty of Nystad in 1721 gave Russia control of key Baltic territories. Domestically, he forced Westernization, mandating nobles shave their beards and adopt European dress. He centralized government power and introduced a 'Table of Ranks' in 1722, allowing m