Catherine the Great

  • Catherine was Born

    Catherine the Great was born named Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst. She was born in Prussia to Prince Chrsitian Auguste won Anhalt-Zerbst of Germany and Princess Johanna of Holstien- Gottorp.
  • Catherine was Married

    Catherine was not very happy about marrying, but she married Grand Duke Peter Fyodorovich. They were married in the Cathedral of Kazan. Just before thier marriage, Peter fell ill. He first had measles and then small pox. He died on July 17th, 1762. She then took the throne.
  • Catherine was Crowned

    Catherine's crown is of great importance to her as a ruler of Russia. Her crown featured shiny diamonds to represent both the East and West sides of Russia. The crown itself represented a new era. The era of enlightenent.
  • The Instruction

    The INstruction was a code of laws proposed by Catherine the Great. In this proposal, she addressed her views on expansion, serfdom, and absolutism.
  • The Decree on Surfs

    The Decree on Serfs was created by Catherine and her government. I set out specific rules and expectations for serfs (peasants) to follow. There were very serious conseques if they did not obey.
  • The Expansion of Borders

    Catherine made it her goal to expand the borders of Russia. Some of the most memorable events were the successful wars agaisnt the Ottoman Empire that lasted from 1768-1774 and 1787 to 1792. She also managed to take control of the black sea. Aside from temporary control, she used the strategy of overpopulating the place in favor of supporters for the Russian cause.
  • Catherine Died

    After a life of sucess, Catherine died from a stroke. She had reigned for 34 years and died at age 67.