Peter III

Full Name: Peter III Fyodorovich
Profession: Emperor of Russia

Nationality:

Biography: Peter III was a German-born Russian emperor known for his brief and controversial reign in the 18th century. He is remembered for his attempted reforms of the Russian government and church, his conflict with Denmark over Holstein, and his subsequent overthrow and mysterious death, leading to the ascension of his wife Catherine the Great.

Peter III rose to the throne in 1762 after the death of his aunt, Empress Elizabeth. He married Sophie of Anhalt-Zerbst, later Catherine the Great, but their marriage was troubled. During his short time as emperor, Peter III initiated various reforms including the secularization of church lands and modernization of the Russian military. These reforms were met with resistance, which played a part in his eventual downfall.

The emperor's foreign policies, especially his intervention in the conflict over his native Holstein against Denmark, were unpopular and alienated the Russian nobility. His strong German affiliations and lack of connection to Russian culture further diminished his standing among the Russian elites.

After just six months as emperor, Peter III was deposed in a coup orchestrated by Catherine the Great and her supporters. Shortly after his deposition, Peter III died under mysterious circumstances while being held captive. Catherine's reign outshone Peter III's, relegating his reign to a footnote in the broader narrative of Russian history.

The Great, a television series concerned with his wife Catherine, has more recently featured a historically inaccurate depiction of Peter III. He was played by Nicholas Hoult, with his wife being played by Elle Fanning.

Born: February 21, 1728
Birthplace: Kiel, Holstein-Gottorp, Duchy of Holstein
Star Sign: Pisces

Died: July 17, 1762 (aged 34)
Cause of Death: Mysterious circumstances while being held captive