G2: Catherine the Great

Born Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst, Catherine the Great was Empress of Russia from 1762 until her death in 1796. Her reign is often considered a golden age for Russia, marked by significant expansion, modernization, and cultural flourishing. She reformed the Russian government, enhancing the power of the central administration and dividing Russia into provinces and districts to improve governance. She secured territories in the Crimea, the Black Sea region, and parts of Poland extending Russia's borders and influence. Her patronage of the arts and education helped to create a vibrant cultural scene in Russia, contributing to its reputation as a major European power. Despite her many achievements, however, Catherine's reign also had significant shortcomings, particularly in terms of social inequality and the harsh treatment of serfs.

Purpose: Learn about the life of Catherine the Great and the impact her reign had on Russia

Facilitators: Nancy Taylor, Mary Tousignant, Mo Winograd, Jan Johnson (Guest Presenter - Shadow Wood), Ruthmarie Mitsch (Guest Presenter - Lighthouse Bay)