Catherine the Great

1729–1796 · German-Russian (Stettin, Prussia / St. Petersburg) · Imperial Russia, Enlightenment Era

Known for: Empress who expanded Russia dramatically, modernized the country, and was the longest-ruling female leader in Russian history

Catherine was a minor German princess who married the incompetent Russian heir Peter III, then overthrew him in a coup eight months after his coronation (he was conveniently murdered shortly after). She ruled Russia for 34 years, expanding the empire to include Crimea, Poland, and Alaska.

She corresponded with Voltaire and Diderot, founded the Hermitage Museum, reformed Russian education and administration, and promoted Enlightenment ideals—while also presiding over the expansion of serfdom. She crushed Pugachev's Rebellion (a massive peasant revolt) with extreme brutality.

She was one of history's most capable rulers—Russia became a European great power under her reign. She died of a stroke at 67, and the stupid horse rumor was invented by her enemies. It's not true. Stop it.

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