Peter's Introduction of Conscription
Conscription in Russia was introduced by Peter I of Russia in December 1699, though reports say Peter's father also used it. The conscripts were called "recruits" in Russia (not to be confused with voluntary recruitment), which did not appear until the early 20th century.
Peter I formed a modern regular army built on the German model, but with a new aspect: officers not necessarily from nobility, as talented commoners were given promotions that eventually included a noble title at the attainment of an officer's rank (such promotions were later abolished during the reign of Katherine II). Conscription of peasants and townspeople was based on quota system, per settlement. Initially it was based on the number of households, later it was based on the population numbers.
The term of service in 18th century was for life. In 1793 it was reduced to 25 years. In 1834 it was reduced to 20 years plus 5 years in the reserve and in 1855 to 12 years plus 3 years in the reserve.
Read more about this topic: Imperial Russian Army
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