Imperial Russia - 1762-1801, Russia & Former Soviet Union - Political Biography, 1689 - 1916 (Imperial Russia) - History, Russia - Kings & Rulers - Biography

Catherine the Great

Name: Catherine the Great
Author: Michael Streeter
ISBN: 9781905791064

by Michael Streeter

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Overview

Catherine the Great (1729-96) was born Princess Sophia Augusta of Anhalt-Zerbst, the daughter of a minor German princely family, she rose to become the greatest ruler of the vast Russian empire in the 18th century. After enduring an arranged marriage to the feeble-minded Emperor Peter III, she seized power for herself, with the help of the powerful Orlov family, on her husband's accession to the throne. He was murdered shortly afterwards. This 'foreign' princess then ruled her growing domain with a vigour and devotion that was more than equal to that of any Russian Empress. This biography reveals a remarkable woman who combined intelligence, a passion for the responsibilities of state and governance with a constant search for the love of important men. The scandalous rumours that swirled about her in her lifetime and were exaggerated over the centuries after her death are put to rest. A fascinating life of a ruler who was deservedly styled 'the Great'.

About the Author:
Michael Streeter is a writer and journalist who worked for many years in Fleet Street

Synopsis

A fascinating life of a ruler who was deservedly styled 'the Great'

About the Author, Michael Streeter

Michael Streeter is a writer and a journalist who has travelled widely in the Spanish-speaking world and worked as a journalist in Mexico. He has an MA in Latin American Politics and History. Michael worked for many years in Fleet Street, including spells as news editor of the Independent on Sunday and as editor of the Scottish Daily Express.