Catherine II of Russia
Catherine the Great

Absolutism is believing in principles that will not change politically, ethically, or theologically.

Biography

• Born May 2, 1729 in Poland and died November 17, 1796 in Russia.
• She was married to Peter III
• She had three children; one son and two daughters
• She was Empress of Russia from 1762-1796. She was the longest running female leader.
• She worked to have her husband removed and when he stepped down she took over as the leader.

Untitled Slide

Catherine the Great was an absolute monarch because she was the only ruler and did not have to answer to anyone.

Major achievements/failures

• Russia expanded its borders
• Improved administration
• Attempts to reform were not acceptable.
• 95% of the Russian population did not benefit from the things she did.

Conflicts during her reign was that the people still suffered, especially the serfs. She needed to replenish the state treasury which was empty when she died. The War and Revolt 1768-1774.

After her death

• People, considered her enemies, began spreading rumors about her final days.
• People hoped for a scandal surrounding how she died, however, the truth is that she died from a stroke.

Catherine II of Russia had a reputation as an "enlightened despot". Although she did some good things during her reign she is not remembered fondly as she did not help the people of Russia during her time as ruler.

Interesting Facts

• She converted to the Russian Orthodox faith.
• The paternity of her son, the heir, was questioned.
• Her reign worsened the conditions of the serfs.
• The largest Peasant revolt took place during her reign.
• She had numerous lovers and rewarded them generously.

Sources

• biography.com
• Wikipedia
• encyclopedia.com
• leonardo-newtonic.com