Prologue: The Flame of Enlightenment and the Emperor’s Destiny
The Russian Empire in the 18th Century.
The peasants were bound by heavy chains.
Meanwhile, the winds of Enlightenment swept across Europe, shaking the foundations of the old order and heralding a new era.
Amidst this, a young woman from a small German principality was invited to Russia.
Sophie Auguste Friederike
She would later go down in history as Catherine the Great.
The annexation of Crimea, exchanges with Enlightenment thinkers, and the pursuit of reforms—she tirelessly worked to transform the empire into a formidable power.
However, behind the glory lay the suffering of the peasants and the shadows of societal contradictions.
Yekaterína II:
“What I leave behind must serve as the foundation for the future.”
Her passion and solitary determination shaped the future of Russia.
In the winter of 1756, the Russian court was enveloped in a frozen silence.
In one of the vast palace chambers, a woman sat staring into the fireplace.
Memories of the past flickered in her eyes.
Yekaterína II:
“When I first came to this land, everything was unknown to me.”
“From a small German court to the heart of this vast Russia.”
“That fateful invitation changed me forever.”
Lady-in-waiting Anna:
“Your Majesty, those times were truly harsh, weren’t they?”
Yekaterína II:
“It wasn’t just harsh.”
“It was a painful journey.”
“But I came to love Russia and dreamed of its future.”
“However, making that dream a reality came at a cost.”
This is the story of Catherine the Great’s remarkable achievements and the inner struggles hidden in their shadow.
Chapter 1: Birth and Early Years
Born in 1729 in the small Prussian principality of Stettin as Sophie Auguste Friederike,
she received an exceptional education from an early age.
Her father was the Duke of Anhalt-Zerbst, and her mother hailed from the House of Holstein-Gottorp.
Ambitious, her mother harbored grand plans for her daughter’s future.
Mother:
“Sophie, a great destiny awaits you.”
“Study more.”
“Languages, history—everything.”
Sophie:
“But Mother, I don’t want that.”
“I just want to be ordinary.”
Mother:
“You are not in a position to be ordinary.”
With those words etched in her heart, Sophie devoted herself to her studies.
She learned French, German, history, and philosophy, eventually growing into an intelligent and cultured young woman.
A Turning Point in 1744
Empress Elizabeth of Russia proposed a marriage between Sophie and the Russian heir, Peter Fyodorovich.
Sophie’s mother saw this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure her daughter’s future.
Sophie began rigorously studying Russian and the doctrines of the Orthodox Church,
preparing herself to carve out her own destiny.
Sophie:
“Russia… what kind of place will it be?”
“I hope it’s more than just a cold and vast land.”
Lady-in-waiting:
“Lady Sophie, everything is ready.”
“Please take care.”
And so, she embarked on her journey to the land of destiny—Russia.
Chapter 2: The Russian Court and Marriage
Upon arriving in Russia, Sophie met Empress Elizabeth and Peter Fyodorovich.
She immersed herself in studying Russian, converted to the Orthodox Church,
and adopted the name “Catherine Alexeievna.”
Yekaterína:
“If I don’t understand the people and culture of this country, I won’t survive.”
Peter III:
“So, you’re Yekaterína.”
“Well, nice to meet you.”
Yekaterína II:
“This is the man who will be my husband…”
“The real challenge begins now.”
The Impact of Marriage
In 1745, she married Peter III, but their relationship quickly turned cold.
Peter III was childish and irresponsible, and no affection developed between them.
Lady-in-waiting Anna:
“Your Majesty, isn’t there a way to improve your relationship with him?”
Yekaterína II:
“Expecting that is pointless.”
“You can’t change someone else.”
“People can only change themselves.”
“I want to change who I am now.”
“I want to achieve something.”
“Only when someone truly decides that for themselves do they begin to change.”
She resolved to turn her loneliness into strength and began taking action to ensure her survival in the court.
Chapter 3: Awakening as a Mother and a Ruler
1754: The Joy of Motherhood
Yekaterína II gave birth to her son, Pavel, but her days were filled with a deteriorating relationship with her husband and the constant intrigues of court life.
Lady-in-waiting Anna:
“Emperor Peter shows no interest in you.”
“What will you do about it?”
Yekaterína II:
“It doesn’t matter.”
“But my goal is to protect this child’s future.”
“And I will change this country—for him.”
She immersed herself in the works of Voltaire and other Enlightenment thinkers,
cultivating a vision to transform Russia’s future.
Yekaterína II:
“This country’s future needs education.”
“Enlightenment ideals will guide this nation forward.”
She began building the knowledge and support base to sustain her,
gradually expanding her influence within the court.
Chapter 4: The Coup d’État Plan
1762: The Accession of Her Husband, Peter III
Her husband’s accession brought new challenges for Catherine.
Peter III’s policies were deeply unpopular, causing him to lose support both domestically and abroad.
Yekaterína II:
“If things continue like this, the future of our country is at risk.”
“Surely, It will collapse.”
“To protect this nation, he must abdicate, and I must take the throne.”
Supporter Alexei:
“Your Majesty, we stand with you.”
“For the sake of this country, let us remove the Emperor from the throne.”
The Execution of the Coup d’État
On July 9, 1762, Catherine forced her husband to abdicate and ascended to the throne as Empress.
Thanks to her composed leadership and the cooperation of her supporters, the plan succeeded.
Yekaterína II:
“This is my mission.”
“I am the only one who can shape Russia’s future.”
The Outcome
Peter III was imprisoned and assassinated on July 17 of the same year.
Officially, it was announced:
“The former Emperor Peter III passed away suddenly due to complications from chronic hemorrhoids, and Catherine the Great deeply mourns his loss.”
However, the truth of this statement remains uncertain.
Though Catherine’s direct involvement remains unclear,
the event solidified her rule and secured her position on the throne.
Chapter 5: The Beginning of Reign and Challenges
Reforms as an Enlightened Despot
After ascending the throne, Yekaterína II undertook reforms in the education system and began the codification of laws.
Particularly notable was the Nakaz (Great Instruction), an attempt to codify laws based on Enlightenment principles.
Yekaterína II sought to modernize Russia and govern it based on Enlightenment ideals.
She was an avid reader of the works of thinkers such as Voltaire and Montesquieu,
whose ideas inspired her to recognize the need to reform Russia’s outdated legal system.
In 1767, Catherine convened the “Legislative Commission” in an attempt to draft a new legal code.
The Nakaz (Great Instruction) was created for this purpose.
Equality Before the Law
・She advocated that all citizens should be equal before the law.
・Her intention was to address and improve the unequal treatment perpetuated by the nobility and privileged classes.
Humanization of Punishments
・She advocated for the abolition of torture and cruel punishments.
・She emphasized that punishments should aim at the rehabilitation of offenders.
Individual Freedom
She established it as the state’s duty to protect the lives, liberty, and property of its citizens.
Principles of Governance
・She stated that the role of the state is to uphold the law and maintain social order.
・While emphasizing the authority of the monarch, she also advocated for avoiding tyranny.
The Importance of Economy and Education
・She emphasized that the promotion of commerce and agriculture,
as well as the spread of education, were essential for the nation’s development.
The Legislative Commission brought together nobles, clergy, and peasant representatives to discuss and work towards drafting a new legal code.
Yekaterína II:
“Everyone should be equal before the law.”
“This is essential to lead this country toward a future of justice and order.”
Noble Representative:
“But Your Majesty, the idea of equality before the law undermines our privileges.”
“We cannot be treated on the same level as the peasants.”
“Such reforms would damage our traditions.”
Yekaterína II:
“Traditions that must be guarded to avoid being lost hold no real value.”
“The times are changing every day.”
“We cannot build the future on traditions that fail to keep pace with change.”
However, over time, various oppositions and limitations began to surface.
Clergy Representative:
“Your Majesty, Enlightenment ideals contain many aspects that contradict the teachings of God.”
“Shouldn’t such reforms be approached with greater caution?”
Yekaterína II:
“The teachings of God are rooted in compassion and justice.”
“The future I envision is based on those very principles.”
Peasant Leader Ivan:
“Your Majesty, we peasants are at our limit.”
“Could you save us from the heavy taxes and exploitation of the landlords?”
Yekaterína II:
“Ivan, I hear your voices.”
“However, the stability of this country requires gradual reforms.”
Peasant Leader Ivan’s thoughts:
“Gradual…”
“How many lives will be lost in the meantime?”
“But without action from this Empress, we have no future.”
The Contradictions of Serfdom
Despite proclaiming equality before the law and individual freedom in the Nakaz (Great Instruction), it made no mention of abolishing serfdom.
Maintaining serfdom was deemed necessary.
However, this system directly contradicted the Nakaz (Great Instruction)’s principle that “all citizens are equal before the law.”
Peasant Leader Ivan:
“Are our voices destined to never be heard after all?”
“What was the purpose of our coming here?”
Conflicts with the Nobility
Yekaterína II’s willingness to listen to the voices of the peasants provoked resentment among some of the nobility.
Noble Alexander:
“Your Majesty, if this continues, our position will be at risk.”
“Empowering the peasants will lead to the collapse of the empire’s order.”
Yekaterína II:
“Alexander, order is not maintained through fear.”
“True stability can only be achieved through just governance.”
Noble Alexander’s thoughts:
“Her ideals are beautiful.”
“But this country is far too complex for them to be realized.”
Yekaterína II:
“Is it not enough to uphold ideals?”
“To move this vast country forward, must I compromise with reality?”
At the beginning of Yekaterína II’s reign, she was an outsider from Germany,
and as the ruler of Russia,
she had no choice but to rely on the traditional support structures that upheld the Russian Empire.
However, the nobility maintained their economic foundation through income generated from serfs.
In rural areas, the nobility played a critical role in administration, maintaining order, and ensuring tax collection.
Changing this system risked provoking widespread resistance from the entire noble class.
Moreover, to secure the resources necessary for military expenses and administrative reforms,
Yekaterína II had to win the cooperation of the nobility.
For these reasons, she was compelled to adopt policies that protected the privileges of the nobility and safeguarded their interests.
As a result, while her policies significantly contributed to Russia’s development, the issue of serfdom remained unresolved,
leaving a legacy of social contradictions for future generations.
In 1768, the Russo-Turkish War broke out.
As a result, the Legislative Commission was dissolved, and the drafting of a new legal code based on the Nakaz (Great Instruction) was never realized.
Yekaterína II’s envisioned resolution of the serfdom issue remained unfulfilled.
Lessons and Struggles
Yekaterína II:
“Changing the law is difficult.”
“But this effort was not in vain.”
“The path to reform must be taken one step at a time.”
“For now, it is a time to endure.”
Thus, while the ideals of the Nakaz (Great Instruction) were temporarily set aside, her governance rooted in Enlightenment principles continued to leave a lasting impact.
Education Reforms
Established Russia’s first educational institution for women, the Smolny Institute, in 1764.
Promoted the development of a network of local schools to expand access to education.
Cultural Promotion
She dedicated herself to the establishment and expansion of the Hermitage Museum, contributing significantly to the development of Russian culture.
She also corresponded with Enlightenment thinkers such as Voltaire and Diderot, collecting their letters and fostering intellectual exchanges.
Chapter 6: The Peasants’ Struggles and Inner Conflict
A Life of Oppression
Even before Yekaterína II’s reign, many peasants lived under the harsh control of landowners, enduring lives of great hardship.
Serfdom forced peasants into labor and stripped them of the freedom to leave the land.
However, the peasants’ hope for change, embodied in the Nakaz (Great Instruction), never came to fruition, and the vision of “equality before the law for all” remained nothing more than a dream.
Peasant 1:
“No matter how hard I work every day, nothing ever truly belongs to me.”
Peasant 2:
“My life depends on the whims of the landowner, and punishment is always looming.”
“Will this way of living continue forever?”
Rising Discontent
The harsh working conditions and heavy tax burdens weighed heavily on the peasants’ spirits.
Landowners, driven by the pursuit of profit, imposed even greater obligations on the peasants.
Peasant 3:
“Why must we suffer like this?”
“Unless someone raises their voice, this situation will never change.”
The Sprouting of Hope
Amidst their struggles, some peasants began to place their hopes in figures rumored to advocate for “the liberation of serfs.”
Peasant 4:
“Have you heard?”
“Someone is saying they will set us free.”
Peasant 5:
“Can we really believe such a story?”
“But if it’s true…”
Peasant 6:
“Maybe there’s still hope left for us…”
Harsh tax burden
The heavy tax burden imposed by the government weighed heavily on the farmers.
Amid ongoing wars, the state demanded even greater contributions from the farmers to replenish its finances.
Peasant 6:
“Are you telling me to give up my home and family if I can’t pay the taxes?”
Peasant 7:
“We have nothing left to lose anymore.”
“We have no choice but to rise up.”
Doubt and Hope
Some farmers began searching for ways to unite and change their circumstances.
However, they understood that the path ahead would not be a peaceful one.
Peasant 8:
“Even if we rise up, our opponents are the landlords and the government, both with armies.”
“Is there really any way we can win?”
Peasant 9:
“But if we don’t act, this hellish life will go on forever.”
Chapter 7: The Birth of Pugachev
An Explosion of Discontent
The growing discontent among the peasants finally escalated into an organized movement of rebellion.
It was around this time that the name Yemelyan Pugachev began to be whispered among them.
Claiming to be the deposed former emperor, Peter III, Pugachev rallied support as the “true emperor.”
The Peasant Leader:
“He says he will end serfdom.”
“He is our only hope.”
Peasant 10:
“But where is the guarantee that he will succeed?”
The Peasant Leader:
“There are no guarantees.”
“But if we don’t act now, there will be no our future either.”
Pugachev’s Claims
Pugachev:
“I am the true emperor, Yemelyan Pugachev.”
“I am the rightful ruler, not her.”
“I will end the tyranny of landlords and the government, bringing equality to all people.”
“If you seek freedom and a future, follow me.”
Those words became a beacon of hope for many peasants.
The Beginning of Unity
Under Pugachev’s claims, the peasants gradually began to unite.
What started as localized riots soon evolved into a large-scale rebellion that shook the very foundations of the state.
Cossack Discontent
The Cossacks, stripped of their independence, lent their support to the rebellion.
Religious Conflict
Religious groups, particularly the Old Believers (Raskolniki), were in open defiance of the government.
Peasant 11:
“This is a battle for our future.”
“Let us fight for our freedom and carve out our destiny.”
Peasant 12:
“If we follow him, a new era is sure to come.”
Chapter 8: Pugachev’s Rebellion
The Expansion of the Rebellion
In 1773, the rebellion led by Yemelyan Pugachev began in earnest.
Unable to endure the harsh serfdom and the heavy taxes imposed by landlords, the peasants found hope in Pugachev’s promises of “emancipation of the serfs” and “fair distribution.”
Under his leadership, peasants, Cossacks, and Old Believer followers united, extending their influence across the entire southern region of Russia.
Pugachev:
“Our fight is for God and justice!”
“End the tyranny of the landlords and grant freedom to all!”
Early Victories
The rebel forces captured key fortresses along the Volga River, achieving significant military victories.
They continued to expand their influence near the Ural Mountains, seizing several more strongholds.
As more peasants joined Pugachev’s army, the rebellion grew beyond expectations, swelling in size and scope.
The uprising spread across Russia, at times overwhelming government forces.
The General:
“Your Majesty, the rebel forces are far more organized than we anticipated.”
“If this continues, the governance of the empire itself may be at risk.”
Yekaterína II:
“Their anger against serfdom is justified.”
“We must also listen to their grievances.”
“But I do not fear rebellion.”
“I will overcome this crisis and unify Russia.”
“To achieve that, we must first suppress them with force.”
Chapter 9: The Tactics of the Rebel Army
Pugachev’s forces utilized swift movements and guerrilla tactics to outmaneuver the government army.
Additionally, his message of “emancipation of the serfs” became a crucial factor in attracting new supporters to the cause.
Peasant 13:
“Under Pugachev, we can gain our freedom.”
Peasant 14:
“If he becomes emperor, the days of being ruled by landlords will come to an end.”
The Government Army’s Counterattack
Yekaterína II dispatched seasoned generals to suppress the rebellion.
She reinforced and supplied the army meticulously, ordering strategies aimed at wearing down the rebel forces.
The General:
“Your Majesty, we have initiated a strategy to divide the rebel forces and cut off their supply lines.”
Yekaterína II
“No delay will be tolerated.”
“Do everything in your power to preserve the unity of the empire.”
Chapter 10: The Collapse of the Rebellion
In the latter half of 1774, the systematic attacks by the government forces gradually led to the collapse of Pugachev’s army.
Internal discord and supply shortages further weakened the rebellion.
After all, despite being a rebel army, they were still peasants—amateurs in the art of war.
Against the forces led by seasoned generals, they stood little chance of victory.
Pugachev:
“Is this where my dream ends…?”
“Even so, I hope my voice will serve as nourishment for the freedom and future of the peasants.”
Pugachev’s Capture and Execution
In 1775, Pugachev was betrayed by his comrades, captured, and publicly executed in Moscow.
While his execution symbolized the end of the rebellion, it did not completely resolve the deep-seated discontent among the peasants.
Catherine’s Lesson
Through this rebellion, the rebellion left a profound impact on Catherine the Great.
She recognized the fragility of the empire and the dangers of ignoring the grievances of the peasantry.
The uprising served as a lesson for the Russian government, highlighting the need to reassess peasant policies while maintaining the privileges of the nobility.
Yekaterína II:
“We have won the battle, but we must not underestimate the discontent of the peasants.”
“To build a truly strong nation, improving their lives is essential.”
“However, uniting this vast empire requires careful and measured reforms.”
Results and Impact
Short-Term Impact: The suppression of the rebellion strengthened Catherine’s regime.
Long-Term Impact: The issue of serfdom remained unresolved, becoming a factor that would lead to further turmoil in later periods.
Yekaterína II:
“Changing this country is no easy task.”
“But I will never abandon this mission.”
Chapter 11: The Path to the Annexation of Crimea
Yekaterína II sought to expand the Russian Empire southward, aiming to secure access to the Black Sea amidst conflicts with the Ottoman Empire.
The Black Sea was a vital trade route connecting to the Mediterranean.
The Crimean Khanate, a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire, posed a significant threat to Russia.
Located on the northern shore of the Black Sea, Crimea’s strategic position had the potential to endanger Russia’s southern regions.
Thus, Russia aimed to bring this region under its control.
The First Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774)
After emerging victorious in the First Russo-Turkish War, Russia formally declared the Crimean Khanate “independent.”
However, this independence was nominal, as the Khanate effectively came under Russian control.
The purpose of this formal “independence” was to eliminate Ottoman influence in the region.
Through this maneuver, Russia gained access to trade routes leading to the Mediterranean, reaping significant economic benefits.
However, the sudden declaration of independence was far from functional. The Crimean Khanate struggled with internal conflicts, remaining in a state of instability.
The Diplomat:
“Your Majesty, the situation in Crimea remains unstable.”
“Internal conflicts persist, and the Khanate is effectively in a state of anarchy.”
Yekaterína II:
“If the chaos continues, we must be the ones to bring stability.”
“Controlling the Black Sea is essential for Russia’s future.”
Yekaterína II’s Decision
In 1783, Yekaterína II the Great decided to formally annex Crimea into the Russian Empire.
She regarded this annexation as a significant step forward for the nation.
Yekaterína II:
“It is our mission to build Russia’s prosperity on the land of Crimea.”
“I have made this decision to pave the way for our future.”
Achievements Gained from the Annexation of Crimea
Expansion into the Black Sea: Secured the northern shores of the Black Sea, establishing key trade and military bases.
Enhancement of International Standing: Russia began to play a more significant role among the major powers of Europe.
Establishment of the Black Sea Fleet: Strengthened its military presence and expanded its influence in the southern region.
Resistance and Challenges
The annexation of Crimea further deteriorated Russia’s relations with the Ottoman Empire.
The oppression of local populations, particularly the Crimean Tatars, became a significant issue, leading to heightened ethnic tensions in the region.
This growing conflict ultimately escalated into the Second Russo-Turkish War (1787–1792).
The Ottoman Empire’s Ambassador:
“The annexation of Crimea is a significant challenge to our nation.”
“This action will not go unnoticed.”
Yekaterína II:
“The path to territorial expansion always comes with sacrifices.”
“However, if this is a necessary step for Russia’s future, I will not hesitate.”
Historical Significance
Yekaterína II’s annexation of Crimea was a symbolic success of the Russian Empire’s southern expansion policy, leaving a profound impact on subsequent history.
This event solidified Russia’s control over the Black Sea and laid the foundation for further expansion of the empire’s influence.
Yekaterína II:
“Russia’s future will continue to expand.”
“This land will become the place where a new chapter of our nation’s story is written.”
Chapter 12: The Establishment of the Charter to the Nobility (1785)
After the Pugachev Rebellion, Yekaterína II the Great embarked on a series of reforms.
However, these reforms were not aimed at directly alleviating the plight of the peasants but instead focused on centralization and enhancing the efficiency of the state.
Yekaterína II:
“To strengthen our nation, we must organize the administration and establish law and order.”
The Charter to the Nobility (1785): Key Features
Yekaterína II the Great’s Charter to the Nobility in 1785 solidified noble privileges while streamlining local governance.
1. Recognition of Noble Privileges
Nobles were affirmed as a hereditary class with guaranteed status.
They were granted personal freedoms, including protection from arrest or property confiscation without due legal process.
Obligations for military and administrative service were partially relaxed.
2. Rights to Self-Governance
Nobles were entitled to establish “Noble Assemblies” in each region, where they could discuss local administration and their collective interests.
These assemblies elected their representatives to manage local self-governance.
3. Protection of Property
Nobles’ ownership of land and control over serfs were legally guaranteed.
Property could be freely bought, sold, or transferred without state interference.
4. Tax Exemption Privileges
Nobles were exempt from most taxes and military conscription.
This exemption, coupled with income derived from serfs, strengthened their economic foundation.
Debates in the Assembly
Yekaterína II:
“We will establish noble assemblies to streamline local governance. This charter is a necessary step for the stability of Russia.”
Noble Representative:
“Your Majesty, this charter preserves our traditions and privileges.”
“We are deeply grateful.”
Noble 1:
“We must ensure that our privileges are protected.”
“Without them, how can we maintain our role as pillars of the empire?”
Noble 2:
“Indeed, but we also have a responsibility to support the state.”
“Efficient local governance benefits not only us but also strengthens Russia as a whole.”
Noble 3:
“Yet, we cannot allow too much interference from the central government.”
“The autonomy granted to us must remain intact if we are to safeguard our lands and interests.”
Noble 4:
“Let us not forget that with these rights come responsibilities.”
“A stable and prosperous empire ensures our own prosperity.”
Peasant Representative:
“But Your Majesty, this charter only protects the rights of the nobles. At this rate, the burdens on the peasants will only continue to grow.”
“Your Majesty, while the nobles’ privileges are strengthened, what hope remains for us?”
“Will there ever be a day when our burdens are lightened?”
“What will become of the lives of the peasants?”
Noble Representative:
“The peasants’ well-being depends on the stability and prosperity of the nobility.”
“By strengthening our position, we ensure the order and productivity of the entire empire.”
Peasant Representative:
“Your Majesty, the peasants are the foundation of the state.”
“Allowing them too much freedom would only disrupt the order.”
Yekaterína II:
“No voice can be ignored.”
“However, for now, we must pass this charter to achieve stability.”
“But the reforms will continue.”
Impact of the Charter
Yekaterína II secured the support of the nobility, thereby strengthening the foundation of her rule.
However, this charter also resulted in amplifying the discontent among the peasants.
Lady-in-Waiting Anna:
“Your Majesty, this charter is highly praised among the nobility.”
“However, on the other hand, the peasants are feeling increasingly uneasy.”
Yekaterína II:
“I cannot respond to every voice.”
“This charter is a step toward stability.”
“Yet, I understand the pain that lies behind it.”
“Reform comes with pain, but if this becomes the foundation for the future, I will not hesitate.”
The Charter to the Nobility was a policy that symbolized Yekaterína II the Great’s pragmatic compromises in governance.
In the short term, it maintained the stability of the empire by securing the support of the nobility, but in the long term, it led to an increase in social disparities.
Nevertheless, it remains a policy that played a significant role in the governance of Russia during her reign.
Codification of Laws
Yekaterína II continued her dialogue with Enlightenment thinkers, actively incorporating new knowledge and ideas through correspondence with figures such as Voltaire and Diderot.
Voltaire (from a letter):
“Your Majesty, your pursuit of justice and reason in governance is truly admirable.”
“Russia has the potential to be a beacon of Enlightenment, and under your rule, it moves ever closer to that ideal.”
“However, if not approached carefully, it may provoke resistance.”
Yekaterína II:
“I will proceed cautiously while listening to the voices of the people.”
“Reforms require time.”
Chapter 13: Loneliness and Legacy in Her Later Years
A Lonely Final Chapter
By the 1790s, Yekaterína II’s health began to gradually decline.
Though she was surrounded by trusted ladies-in-waiting and close advisors, she carried a sense of loneliness in her heart.
Yekaterína II:
“I have accomplished much.”
“Yet, I still feel as though something is missing.”
Lady-in-Waiting Anna:
“Your Majesty, your achievements have shaped the empire and will be remembered for generations.”
“Perhaps it is not what is missing, but the weight of all that you have carried.”
“Your Majesty, what you have left behind for Russia is immeasurable.”
Yekaterína II:
“I was not even Russian, yet I ascended to the throne as the Emperor of Russia.”
“Have I truly achieved enough to be worthy of that title…?”
The Light and Shadow of Enlightenment Thought
The reforms promoted by Yekaterína II achieved success in certain areas but failed to improve the lives of peasants or address social inequality.
1796: Yekaterína II’s Death
On November 6, 1796, Catherine the Great passed away due to a stroke.
She was 67 years old.
After her death, her son, Paul I, ascended to the throne.
Achievements and Legacy of Yekaterína II the Great
Yekaterína II’s reign brought significant transformations to Russia, yet unresolved issues were also left behind.
・Expansion of Russian Territory: Including the annexation of Crimea and access to the Black Sea.
・Promotion of Education and Culture: Advocating Enlightenment ideals through correspondence with thinkers like Diderot and Voltaire.
・Policies as an Enlightened Despot: While praised for her reforms, she faced criticism for maintaining serfdom.
Yekaterína II’s policies brought great benefits to Russia, but they also passed unresolved challenges to future generations.
Epilogue
What Yekaterína II left behind was not limited to mere territorial expansion or educational reforms.
Her will and passion are still etched into the history of Russia.
Lady-in-Waiting Anna:
“Your Majesty, your story will continue to be told for generations to come.”
“Entrusting hope to the future of Russia.”
Yekaterína II:
“Though I was not Russian, I lived for Russia.”
The words she spoke during her lifetime remain etched in history to this day.
Catherine the Great’s reign was a defining era for Russia, characterized by ambition, intellect, and a complex legacy.
Her achievements elevated Russia’s status as a global power, expanded its territory, and laid the foundation for cultural and educational advancements.
Yet, the contradictions in her policies, particularly the preservation of serfdom, left a dual legacy of progress and inequality.
However, the foundation she built expanded the strength and potential of Russia, a legacy that transcends time and continues to be told.
Although Catherine the Great’s story has come to an end, her passion and the flame of her reforms still burn brightly in the annals of Russian history.
Afterword by the author Fuji
She wanted to end the long-standing system of agricultural slavery.
But it was fiercely opposed by the nobility.
Well, from the aristocracy’s point of view, of course.
Because it would be unthinkable that the nobility, the clergy, and the agricultural slaves would be equal.
Besides, at that time, nobles and clergy were exempted from paying taxes.
No one wants to pay taxes.
In order to strengthen the Russian Empire, Yekaterina II desperately needed the cooperation of the nobility for the annexation of Crimea.
So in the end, he had no choice but to adopt policies that favored the nobility.
But as a result, the peasants were heavily taxed, which eventually led to war.
Her ideals required compromise.
This is a story similar to the tragedy of Marie Antoinette that I wrote about before.
One of the causes of the French Revolution was that while the nobility and clergy were exempt from taxes, only the common people suffered under heavy tax burdens.
Marie Antoinette👈Click: There is her story.
Maybe the position of an emperor is heavier than we think.
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I’m a passionate blogger who loves diving deep into human history and sharing captivating stories about remarkable figures and events from the past.
My blog combines engaging storytelling with beautiful illustrations, making history accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Currently, I write my blog while managing a full-time job.
Balancing both limits the time I can dedicate to research, writing, and illustrations.
With your support on Ko-fi, I can reduce the time spent on my main job and focus more on blogging, allowing me to increase the frequency of updates and bring you even more captivating stories.
Whether it’s a one-time coffee or a regular contribution, every bit goes directly into making history engaging and fun for my readers.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through time. Let’s uncover the past together!
If you found this article insightful, please consider supporting me with a cup of coffee! 👈Click☕🙏
Author: Fuji
Human history is truly complex, isn’t it?
There are countless websites introducing historical figures and events, but many of them are just plain explanations—not exactly exciting to read.
On the other hand, reading books takes a lot of time and effort.
That’s where I come in.
Through “stories that are more engaging than explanations and shorter than books,”
I aim to bring the world’s history and humanity’s records to you in a more accessible and interesting way.
If my stories inspire you to love history a little more, I’d be absolutely thrilled!
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