Catherine the Great was one of the most renowned and longest ruling leaders of Russia, reigning from July 9th 1762 until her death on November 17, 1796. During her reign, Catherine expanded the Russian Empire, improved administration, and eagerly pursued the policy of Westernization, which consisted of taking on Western ideas and traditions. Under Catherine's rule, Russia grew strong and independent and rivaled the great powers that are Europe and Asia.
During her rule, Catherine was greatly influenced by many people and ideas, including great French philosophers such as Voltaire and Rousseau. Through these people, Catherine was turned into an 'enlightened despot,' taking on the ideas of the enlightenment eagerly and intensely.
During her rule, Catherine was greatly influenced by many people and ideas, including great French philosophers such as Voltaire and Rousseau. Through these people, Catherine was turned into an 'enlightened despot,' taking on the ideas of the enlightenment eagerly and intensely.