Catherine the Great

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Grand Duchess Catherine Alexeevna by L.Caravaque (1745, Gatchina museum)

Empress Catherine The Great circa 1845 (George Christoph Grooth)

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Peter III and Catherine II by Grooth (copy in Odessa)

Catherine the Great (born 2 May 1729 – 17 November 1796), born as Princess Sophie of Anhalt-Zerbst, was the longest-ruling female leader of Russia, reigning from 9 July 1762 until her death in 1796. She came to power following a coup d'état that overthrew her husband, Peter III, and her reign is often considered the Golden Age of the Russian Empire. Catherine's rule greatly expanded the empire's boundaries and she is credited with revitalizing Russia as a major European power.

Early Life

Catherine was born in Stettin, Prussia (now Szczecin, Poland), to Prince Christian August of Anhalt-Zerbst and Princess Johanna Elisabeth of Holstein-Gottorp. Her original name was Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst. In 1744, she was chosen as the wife of Grand Duke Peter of Russia, heir to the Russian throne, and converted to the Orthodox faith, changing her name to Catherine.

Ascension to the Throne

Catherine ascended to the throne following the ousting of her husband, Peter III, in a coup d'état that she had organized. Her reign officially began on 9 July 1762. Peter III's unpopular policies and personality had alienated the military, the church, and many of the nobility, setting the stage for Catherine's rise to power.

Reign

Catherine's reign was marked by significant internal reforms and territorial expansion. She reorganized the provincial government, codified laws, and embraced Western ideas and culture. Her efforts to modernize Russia included founding new cities, supporting the arts, and encouraging the enlightenment movement within Russia.

Territorial Expansion

Under Catherine, the Russian Empire expanded significantly. Notable achievements include the annexation of Crimea in 1783, the successful wars against the Ottoman Empire, and the partitioning of Poland, which significantly increased Russia's territory and influence in Eastern Europe.

Domestic Policies

Catherine attempted to reform Russian society by drafting a new code of laws and promoting education and health care. However, her reforms in serfdom were limited, and the institution remained largely intact, contributing to social unrest.

Legacy

Catherine the Great is remembered as one of Russia's most influential and dynamic leaders. Her policies laid the groundwork for the Russian Enlightenment and transformed Russia into one of the great powers of Europe. Her reign is often cited as the pinnacle of the Russian Empire's power and the beginning of its cultural renaissance.

Death

Catherine the Great died on 17 November 1796, at the age of 67. She was succeeded by her son, Paul I.