Meet the Empress: Catherine the Great of Russia

Born into a minor noble family, the young woman who would become Catherine the Great married the heir to the Russian throne. She became empress by sheer determination and used principles espoused by Enlightenment philosophers to guide her rule over her vast empire. For more than three decades she controlled Russia’s government while facing domestic rebellion, foreign wars, and political change. She westernized Russia and brought it into full participation in Europe’s political and cultural life. Along the way, Catherine championed the arts, reorganized the Russian law code, and took steps to improve the welfare of the people. Come explore the fascinating story behind the inspiring, complex figure that was Russia’s longest-reigning empress.