Catherine the Great

Full Name: Yekaterina Alexeevna
Profession: Empress of Russia

Nationality:

Biography: Catherine the Great is known for greatly expanding and modernizing Russia during her reign as Empress from 1762 to 1796. She is the longest leading female ruler of Russia, with her reign often considered to be Russia's golden age.

Catherine was born in 1729 in Prussia as Sophie Augusta Frederica. In 1745 she married Peter III, the heir to the Russian throne with whom she had an unhappy marriage, and took the name Catherine.

In 1762, Catherine took power from her husband in a coup with help from her supporters. As empress, she worked to bring Enlightenment ideas and culture to Russia. She built new cities, universities and theaters. Catherine also expanded Russia's territory through both conquest and diplomacy, taking over lands like Crimea and parts of Poland.

Catherine did not end the serfdom system, however, which continued to keep many Russians as slaves and led to rebellions during her rule. Her relationships with many noble favorites and lovers also caused scandals.

Born: April 21, 1729
Birthplace: Stettin, Kingdom of Prussia
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: November 6, 1796 (aged 67)
Cause of Death: Stroke