Catherine the Great ruled Russia as Empress from 1762 to 1796. Born in Stettin, Prussia, she married Peter III, but his short reign was marred by his incompetence.
Catherine orchestrated a coup, becoming ruler. Her reign marked a period of enlightenment, embracing arts, culture, and ideas. She founded the Hermitage Museum which began as Catherine’s personal collection. As empress, Catherine westernized Russia. She led her country into full participation in the political and cultural life of Europe. She also significantly expanded Russian territory through military victories and diplomatic skills, notably in the Partition of Poland.
Catherine had many noblemen favorites including Stanislaus Augustus Poniatowski, Grigory Grigoryevich Orlov, Alexander Vasilchikov, Grigory Potemkin, Ivan Rimsky-Korsakov, and others.
Catherine promoted education, championed the arts and religious tolerance, and she modernized Russia’s legal system. Her personal correspondence and patronage of the arts earned her a reputation as a cultural icon. Under her rule, Russia emerged as a significant European power, solidifying her legacy as one of the most successful and influential female monarchs in history.
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