Catherine the Great

Biography

Born a German princess, Catherine overthrew her husband to become Empress of Russia. Her reign, the Catherinian Era, is considered the Golden Age of the Russian Empire. She expanded Russian territory significantly and championed the arts and sciences, corresponding with prominent figures of the Enlightenment.

Legacy

Catherine the Great is remembered as one of Russia's most formidable and successful rulers. She modernized the country, expanded its borders, and elevated its status as a major European power.