37: Catherine the Great

This week Rose tells us all about the amazing Russian Empress, Catherine the Great. From a Prussian princess to the Empress of Russia, Catherine the Great's journey was filled with determination, ambition, and controversy. At just 15, she embarked on a path that would lead her to the Russian throne. Despite a tumultuous marriage to Grand Duke Peter, Catherine persevered, learning the Russian language and immersing herself in the culture. Never underestimate a woman determined to be queen. As Empress, Catherine left a complex legacy, embracing Enlightenment ideals while suppressing peasant rebellions. Her efforts to abolish serfdom faced challenges, but she made strides in improving public health and education. Her love for the arts birthed the renowned Hermitage museum. Catherine the Great's reign was a testament to her ambition and the complexities of power.

Thank you to our sources!

https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2019/10/8579561/who-was-catherine-the-great-russian-empress-hbo-show

https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/catherine_the_great.shtml

https://www.thoughtco.com/catherine-the-great-p2-3528624

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_III_of_Russia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_the_Great

https://www.historyofroyalwomen.com/catherine-the-great/anna-catherine-the-greats-daughter/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moscow_Orphanage

https://www.rbth.com/history/332526-count-bobrinsky-catherine-the-great-bastard-son

https://www.knowledgesnacks.com/articles/catherine-the-greats-biggest-failure-serfdom/