French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)
Interview Episode - Russian Rulers History Podcast & Catherine the Great
Sep 16, 2022
Guest Mark Schauss, host of the Russian Rulers History Podcast, discusses Catherine the Great's influential policies, surprising ascent to the throne, relationship with French philosophers, and her attitude towards the French Revolution. They also explore her strained relationship with her son, Paul, and her association with the Enlightenment.
57:59
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Quick takeaways
- Catherine the Great's reign saw significant advancements in education, women's roles, and arts, literature, and sciences.
- Despite her initial alignment with Enlightenment thinkers, Catherine's autocratic rule and limited reforms created a disconnect between her rhetoric and actions.
Deep dives
Catherine the Great's Background and Rise to Power
Catherine the Great was born in Germany as Sophia Frederica Augusta von Unhalt Zerst Dornberg. She married Peter III, her second cousin, to strengthen alliances between Russia and Prussia. After the death of Empress Elizabeth, Catherine orchestrated a coup with the backing of the military to overthrow Peter III and claim the throne. Although her reign began with liberal intentions influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like Diderot and Voltaire, Catherine's rule became more autocratic over time.
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