Catherine the Great, born Princess Sophie of Anhalt-Zerbst, was the reigning empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796. Her long and influential reign was marked by significant cultural, educational, and territorial advancements, transforming Russia into one of the great powers of Europe.
Birth of Catherine the Great
2 May 1729
Catherine the Great was born in Stettin, Prussia (modern-day Szczecin, Poland), to Prince Christian August of Anhalt-Zerbst and Princess Johanna Elisabeth of Holstein-Gottorp.
Arrival in Russia and Conversion
1744
Catherine arrived at the Winter Palace in Russia and converted to the Russian Orthodox Church, marking the beginning of her integration into Russian society.
Marriage to Peter III
21 August 1745
Catherine married Peter III of Russia, a union that would eventually lead to her ascension to the throne.
Overthrow of Peter III
28 June 1762
Catherine overthrew her husband, Peter III, and was proclaimed Russian empress by the Russian Imperial Army, marking the start of her 34-year reign.
Coronation
22 September 1762
Catherine was formally crowned Empress Catherine II of Russia, solidifying her position as the ruler of Russia.
First Russo-Turkish War
1768-1774
Catherine led Russia through the First Russo-Turkish War, expanding Russian territory and establishing the country as a major European power.
Toleration of Faiths Edict
1773
Catherine issued the Toleration of Faiths Edict, allowing Muslims to practice their faith freely, a significant step towards religious tolerance.
League of Armed Neutrality
1780
Catherine established the League of Armed Neutrality, aiming to protect Russian shipments during the American Revolution and assert Russia's maritime rights.
Charter of the Towns Act
1782
Catherine introduced the Charter of the Towns Act, recognizing the Jewish people as equal to those belonging to the Russian Orthodox Church, a significant step towards religious equality.
Death of Catherine the Great
17 November 1796
Catherine the Great died at the age of 67 from a suspected stroke, ending her 34-year reign and leaving a lasting legacy in Russian history.
