Biography of Empress Catherine II the Great - key events, people, intrigues. Catherine the Great: personal life

– quite a prominent person in the history of Russia. Thanks to her appearance, charisma, flexible mind and cheerful disposition, she was popular among men and had a stormy personal life. Catherine gave birth to 4 children, two boys and two girls.

Anna Petrovna born in 1757. Many believed that Peter III was not the girl's father, despite the fact that he recognized her as his daughter. There were rumors that the real father was Catherine's lover Stanislav Poniatovsky. The girl, unfortunately, lived a little over a year and died of smallpox in infancy.

The only surviving legitimate child of Catherine the Great is, although in this case there is a lot of controversy and gossip about the origins of the young man. He was born in 1754, and after his birth he was immediately taken in by Empress Elizabeth. The boy received an excellent education, was spoiled by his grandmother, and lived in abundance. Pavel was unhappy in the future, his first wife died in childbirth, and his relationship with his second did not work out, despite the fact that they had 10 children. The young man ascended the throne at the age of 42, but ruled for only 4 years, after which he was killed by conspirators.

Elizaveta Temkina was an illegitimate child of Catherine 2. The Empress gave birth to a girl at a fairly late age - at 46 years old. Her father would be Count Potemkin (it was in his honor that she was given such a surname), after whose death his estates passed to the girl, and she lived a happy life without need. The Empress's daughter happily married Ivan Kalageorgi and gave birth to 10 children. Elizabeth died at the age of 76.

Alexey Bobrinsky- another child of Catherine the Great, born out of wedlock in 1762 from Grigory Orlov. Catherine did not participate in raising her son (she first saw him a year after his birth); the boy was raised by Chamberlain Shkurin until he was 12 years old, after which he was sent to the cadet corps. The young man learned about his origin only after the death of his mother, and was unexpectedly good-naturedly received by Paul 1. Alexei received the title of count and was close friends with his brother. He was interested in alchemy, science and agriculture. The son of Catherine the Great died in 1813.

Portrait of Catherine II, F. S. Rokotov

• Years of life: May 2 (April 21), 1729 – November 17 (6), 1796
• Years of reign: July 9 (June 28), 1762 – November 17 (6), 1796
• Father and mother: Christian August of Anhalt-Zerbst and Johanna Elisabeth of Holstein-Gottorp.
• Spouse: .
• Children: Pavel (Paul I), Anna, Alexey Grigorievich Bobrinsky.

Catherine II ruled Russia from 1762 to 1796. She was born on April 21 (May 2 according to the new calendar) 1729 in Prussia in the city of Stettin (currently called Szczecin and part of Poland).

Catherine II Alekseevna: childhood and early years

At birth she was called Sophia Frederika August of Anhalt-Zerbst. Her father was Prince Christian August of Anhalt-Zerbst, who was in the service of the King of Prussia. And his mother, Johanna Elisabeth, was a cousin of Peter III.

Sofia was homeschooled, she was taught dance, foreign languages, history, geography, theology, etc. Since childhood, she was distinguished by perseverance, curiosity, independence and loved outdoor and active games. From an early age, Ekaterina had a strong character.

Catherine II in Russia

In 1744, Elizaveta Petrovna invited Sofia and her mother to Russia. Sofia immediately began to diligently study the language, traditions and customs of her new homeland. She even studied at night. On June 28, Sofia converted to Christianity and received a new name - Ekaterina Alekseevna.

From the very beginning, the marriage of Catherine and Peter was not successful. At first, he was not at all interested in his wife, he even said that he had another one. Catherine continued to actively engage in self-education: she studied the works of French enlighteners, jurisprudence, economics and history. Obviously, all this significantly influenced Catherine’s worldview and her policies: she was a supporter of the ideas of the Enlightenment. She also paid great attention to studying the traditions and customs of the Russian people. Catherine's pastimes included hunting, dancing and horseback riding.

The lack of relationship between the spouses led to the fact that Catherine had lovers. At the beginning of 1750, she started an affair with guard officer S.V. Saltykov. But despite the cold relationship between the spouses and their infidelity, Empress Elizabeth was unhappy with the lack of heirs.

Catherine had two unsuccessful pregnancies, but on September 20, 1754, she gave birth to a son, Pavel. There was an opinion that his real father was Saltykov, but evidence of these rumors was not presented. After the birth of the heir, Empress Elizabeth ordered him to be taken away immediately; his mother was not allowed to raise him. Catherine first saw Pavel only when he was already more than a month old.

After these events, the relationship between Peter and Catherine completely deteriorated, and he stopped hiding his mistresses. Catherine had a new affair with Stanislaw Poniatowski, who later became King of Poland.

On December 9, 1757, Anna was born, Catherine’s second child. Peter was unhappy because... suspected that he was not the father. The girl did not live long - only two years.

During this period, the position of Catherine II became quite precarious. It was caused not only by the lack of marital relations, but also by the fact that Catherine corresponded with her close friend, the English Ambassador Williams. He repeatedly provided her with loans in exchange for information regarding political issues. Catherine promised him that in the future she would conclude a friendly alliance between Russia and England.

Elizaveta Petrovna was ill, and Catherine was preparing a conspiracy against her husband so that she would get the throne and not him. Catherine's supporters were Apraksin and Bestuzhev. But Elizabeth found out about this betrayal and arrested them; later Catherine had to look for new allies, who became Orlov G.G., Panin N.I., Dashkova E.R., Razumovsky K.G. etc.

She died on December 25, 1761, and Peter III ascended the throne. His relationship with his wife deteriorated even further: he began to live with his mistress Elizaveta Vorontsova, and settled his wife on the other side of the Winter Palace. During these events, Catherine had a love relationship with Grigory Orlov, with whom she gave birth to a son, Alexei Bobrinsky, in 1762. Of course, she had to hide the pregnancy, and the birth also took place secretly, since at that moment she hardly saw her husband.

Peter's actions in both foreign and domestic policy caused discontent. He concluded an agreement with Prussia and returned part of the lands to it, despite the fact that Russia won a number of battles in the Seven Years' War. In addition, he planned to move against Denmark together with Prussia. In addition, Peter III was going to abolish church landholdings, making them secular property, and change church rituals. In parallel with this, Catherine’s supporters won over the officers to their side.

Peter's actions led to the fact that he was considered unworthy to rule the state; he looked ignorant and disrespectful of tradition; Catherine, who planned to stage a coup, looked favorably against his background.

The reign of Catherine II. The essence of politics

On June 28, 1762, Catherine arrived in St. Petersburg, where the Izmailovsky regiments swore allegiance to her. At this time, Peter III was in Oranienbaum. Upon learning of the coup, he proposed negotiations, which were immediately rejected, so he was forced to abdicate. Catherine II became the head of state. But Peter did not give up trying to regain the throne; on July 17, 1762, he died.

Catherine, having become empress, issued a manifesto in which she justified the overthrow of Peter due to the conclusion of peace with Prussia and an attempt to carry out church reform. Peter's son Paul should become emperor, but the justification for Catherine's transition to power was the desire of the entire Russian people.

The reign of Catherine II is called the “golden age” of the Russian Empire. She knew how to select assistants well and was not afraid to surround herself with bright people; it was during her reign that many famous statesmen and creative people appeared.

In her politics, Catherine acted smoothly; she carried out a reform of the Senate, converted church lands into secular property, and made changes to the administrative and judicial spheres.

She believed it was important to educate the people she managed. It was during the reign of Catherine II that new educational institutions were opened, for the first time special for women, free printing houses were created, the Hermitage and the Public Library were opened. She loved writing, and during her life she wrote quite a few comedies, fairy tales, fables, and even librettos for operas.

Catherine II was categorically against serfdom, but she did not dare to abolish it, because... She understood that as a result she would lose the support of the nobility, and perhaps another coup would occur. In addition, the peasants were not educated and were not yet ready to live freely.

As for foreign policy, Catherine believed, as well as, that it was necessary to take an active position and act. First of all, she broke the agreement with Prussia, which was concluded by Peter III. Catherine II ensured that her protege Stanislav August Poniatowski took the Polish throne. Austria and Prussia offered Russia to divide the lands of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth; in case of disagreement, they threatened war. As a result, after three partitions, Russia received part of Belarus, Lithuanian provinces and Ukrainian lands.

From 1768 to 1792 there were Russian-Turkish wars, the result of which was the expansion of Russian territory at the expense of the lands of the Crimea, the North Caucasus and the Black Sea region. Relations with both Sweden and Prussia also normalized.

Catherine’s romances with each were short-lived: she lived with them for several years, after which she broke up. But she did not disgrace any of them; she rewarded them all with titles, good positions and money. It was under Catherine II that favoritism reached its peak.

Death of Catherine II

November 17 (November 6 according to the old calendar) Catherine II died. She was buried together with her husband Peter III (his ashes were transferred from the Winter Palace) in the Peter and Paul Cathedral.

A controversial personality was Catherine II the Great, the Russian empress of German origin. In most articles and films, she is shown as a lover of court balls and luxurious toilets, as well as numerous favorites with whom she once had very close relationships.

Unfortunately, few people know that she was a very smart, bright and talented organizer. And this is an indisputable fact, since the political changes that occurred during the years of her reign related to In addition, numerous reforms that affected the social and state life of the country are another proof of the originality of her personality.

Origin

Catherine 2, whose biography was so amazing and unusual, was born on May 2, 1729 in Stettin, Germany. Her full name is Sophia Augusta Frederica, Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst. Her parents were Prince Christian August of Anhalt-Zerbst and his equal in title, Johanna Elisabeth of Holstein-Gottorp, who was related to such royal houses as English, Swedish and Prussian.

The future Russian empress was educated at home. She was taught theology, music, dance, basic geography and history, and, in addition to her native German, she knew French very well. Already in early childhood, she showed her independent character, perseverance and curiosity, preferring lively and active games.

Marriage

In 1744, Empress Elizaveta Petrovna invited Princess Anhalt-Zerbst and her mother to come to Russia. Here the girl was baptized according to Orthodox custom and began to be called Ekaterina Alekseevna. From that moment on, she received the status of the official bride of Prince Peter Fedorovich, the future Emperor Peter 3.

So, the exciting story of Catherine 2 in Russia began with their wedding, which took place on August 21, 1745. After this event, she received the title of Grand Duchess. As you know, her marriage was unhappy from the beginning. Her husband Peter was at that time still an immature youth who played with soldiers instead of spending his time in the company of his wife. Therefore, the future empress was forced to entertain herself: she read for a long time, and also invented various amusements.

Children of Catherine 2

While the wife of Peter 3 had the appearance of a decent lady, the heir to the throne himself never hid, so almost the entire court knew about his romantic preferences.

After five years, Catherine 2, whose biography, as you know, was also full of love stories, started her first romance on the side. Her chosen one was guards officer S.V. Saltykov. On September 20, 9 years after marriage, she gave birth to an heir. This event became the subject of court discussions, which, however, continue to this day, but in scientific circles. Some researchers are sure that the boy’s father was actually Catherine’s lover, and not her husband Peter. Others claim that he was born of a husband. But be that as it may, the mother did not have time to take care of the child, so Elizaveta Petrovna herself took on his upbringing. Soon the future empress became pregnant again and gave birth to a girl named Anna. Unfortunately, this child lived only 4 months.

After 1750, Catherine had a love relationship with S. Poniatowski, a Polish diplomat who later became King Stanislav August. At the beginning of 1760 she was already with G. G. Orlov, from whom she gave birth to a third child - a son, Alexei. The boy was given the surname Bobrinsky.

It must be said that due to numerous rumors and gossip, as well as the dissolute behavior of his wife, the children of Catherine 2 did not evoke any warm feelings in Peter 3. The man clearly doubted his biological paternity.

Needless to say, the future empress categorically rejected all sorts of accusations brought by her husband against her. Hiding from the attacks of Peter 3, Catherine preferred to spend most of her time in her boudoir. Her relationship with her husband was so damaged that she began to seriously fear for her life. She was afraid that, having come to power, Peter 3 would take revenge on her, so she began to look for reliable allies at court.

Accession to the throne

After the death of his mother, Peter 3 ruled the state for only 6 months. For a long time they spoke of him as an ignorant and weak-minded ruler with many vices. But who created such an image for him? Recently, historians are increasingly inclined to believe that such an unsightly image was created by memoirs written by the organizers of the coup themselves - Catherine II and E. R. Dashkova.

The fact is that her husband’s attitude towards her was not just bad, it was clearly hostile. Therefore, the threat of exile or even arrest hanging over her served as the impetus for preparing a conspiracy against Peter 3. The Orlov brothers, K. G. Razumovsky, N. I. Panin, E. R. Dashkova and others helped her organize the rebellion. On July 9, 1762, Peter 3 was overthrown, and a new empress, Catherine 2, came to power. The deposed monarch was almost immediately taken to Ropsha (30 versts from St. Petersburg). He was accompanied by a guard of guards under the command

As you know, the history of Catherine 2 and, in particular, what she organized is replete with mysteries that excite the minds of most researchers to this day. For example, to this day the cause of death of Peter 3, 8 days after his overthrow, has not been precisely established. According to the official version, he died from a whole bunch of diseases caused by prolonged alcohol consumption.

Until recently, it was believed that Peter 3 died a violent death at the hands of Alexei Orlov. Proof of this was a certain letter written by the murderer and sent to Catherine from Ropsha. The original of this document has not survived, but there was only a copy, allegedly taken by F.V. Rostopchin. Therefore, there is no direct evidence of the emperor’s murder yet.

Foreign policy

It must be said that Catherine 2 the Great largely shared the views of Peter 1 that Russia on the world stage should take leading positions in all areas, while pursuing an offensive and even to some extent aggressive policy. Proof of this can be the breaking of the alliance treaty with Prussia, previously concluded by her husband Peter 3. She took this decisive step almost immediately as soon as she ascended the throne.

The foreign policy of Catherine II was based on the fact that she tried everywhere to place her proteges on the throne. It was thanks to her that Duke E.I. Biron returned to the Courland throne, and in 1763 her protégé, Stanislav August Poniatowski, began to rule in Poland. Such actions led to the fact that Austria began to fear an excessive increase in the influence of the northern state. Its representatives immediately began to incite Russia’s long-time enemy, Turkey, to start a war against it. And Austria still achieved its goal.

We can say that the Russian-Turkish war, which lasted 6 years (from 1768 to 1774), was successful for the Russian Empire. Despite this, the prevailing internal political situation within the country forced Catherine 2 to seek peace. As a result, she had to restore former allied relations with Austria. And a compromise between the two countries was reached. Its victim was Poland, part of whose territory was divided in 1772 between three states: Russia, Austria and Prussia.

The annexation of lands and the new Russian doctrine

The signing of the Kyuchuk-Kainardzhi Peace Treaty with Turkey ensured the independence of Crimea, which was beneficial for the Russian state. In subsequent years, there was an increase in imperial influence not only on this peninsula, but also in the Caucasus. The result of this policy was the inclusion of Crimea into Russia in 1782. Soon the Treaty of Georgievsk was signed with the king of Kartli-Kakheti, Irakli 2, which provided for the presence of Russian troops on the territory of Georgia. Subsequently, these lands were also annexed to Russia.

Catherine 2, whose biography was integrally connected with the history of the country, from the second half of the 70s of the 18th century, together with the then government, began to form a completely new foreign policy position - the so-called Greek project. His ultimate goal was the restoration of the Greek or Byzantine Empire. Its capital was to be Constantinople, and its ruler was the grandson of Catherine 2, Pavlovich.

By the end of the 70s, the foreign policy of Catherine 2 returned the country to its former international authority, which was further strengthened after Russia acted as a mediator at the Teschen Congress between Prussia and Austria. In 1787, the Empress, with the Polish king and the Austrian monarch, accompanied by her courtiers and foreign diplomats, made a long trip to the Crimean peninsula. This grandiose event demonstrated the full military power of the Russian Empire.

Domestic policy

Most of the reforms and transformations that were carried out in Russia were as controversial as Catherine 2 herself. The years of her reign were marked by the maximum enslavement of the peasantry, as well as the deprivation of even the most minimal rights. It was under her that a decree was issued banning the filing of complaints against the arbitrariness of landowners. In addition, corruption flourished among the highest government apparatus and officials, and the empress herself served as an example for them, who generously gifted both relatives and a large army of her fans.

What was she like?

The personal qualities of Catherine 2 were described by her in her own memoirs. In addition, research by historians, based on numerous documents, suggests that she was a subtle psychologist who had a good understanding of people. Proof of this can be the fact that she selected only talented and bright people as her assistants. Therefore, her era was marked by the appearance of a whole cohort of brilliant commanders and statesmen, poets and writers, artists and musicians.

In dealing with her subordinates, Catherine 2 was usually tactful, restrained and patient. According to her, she always listened carefully to her interlocutor, capturing every sensible thought, and then used it for good. Under her, in fact, not a single noisy resignation took place; she did not exile any of the nobles, much less execute them. It is not for nothing that her reign is called the “golden age” of the heyday of the Russian nobility.

Catherine 2, whose biography and personality are full of contradictions, was at the same time quite vain and greatly valued the power she had won. In order to keep it in her hands, she was ready to compromise even at the expense of her own convictions.

Personal life

Portraits of the empress, painted in her youth, indicate that she had a rather pleasant appearance. Therefore, it is not surprising that history included numerous love affairs of Catherine 2. To tell the truth, she could well have remarried, but in this case her title, position, and most importantly, complete power, would have been jeopardized.

According to the popular opinion of most historians, Catherine the Great changed about twenty lovers throughout her life. Very often she presented them with a variety of valuable gifts, generously distributed honors and titles, and all this so that they would be favorable to her.

Results of the board

It must be said that historians do not undertake to unambiguously evaluate all the events that occurred in Catherine’s era, since at that time despotism and enlightenment went hand in hand and were inextricably linked. During her reign, everything happened: the development of education, culture and science, the significant strengthening of Russian statehood in the international arena, the development of trade relations and diplomacy. But, as with any ruler, it was not without oppression of the people, who suffered numerous hardships. Such an internal policy could not help but cause another popular unrest, which grew into a powerful and full-scale uprising led by Emelyan Pugachev.

Conclusion

In the 1860s, an idea arose: to erect a monument to Catherine 2 in St. Petersburg in honor of her 100th anniversary of accession to the throne. Its construction lasted 11 years, and its opening took place in 1873 on Alexandria Square. This is the most famous monument to the empress. During the years of Soviet power, 5 of its monuments were lost. After 2000, several monuments were opened both in Russia and abroad: 2 in Ukraine and 1 in Transnistria. In addition, in 2010, a statue appeared in Zerbst (Germany), but not of Empress Catherine 2, but of Sophia Frederica Augusta, Princess of Anhalt-Zerbst.

An incredible amount of myths, gossip and rumors always gather around historical figures, cultural figures, art and politics. The Russian Empress Catherine II was no exception. According to various sources, the children of Catherine II were born from her legal husband Peter III, favorites Grigory Orlov and Potemkin, as well as adviser Panin. Now it is difficult to say which rumors are true and which are fiction, and how many children Catherine II had.

Children of Catherine II and Peter III

Pavel Petrovich- the first child of Catherine II from Peter III, was born on September 20 (October 1), 1754 in the Summer Imperial Palace in St. Petersburg. Present at the birth of the heir to the empire were the current Empress of Russia Elizaveta Petrovna, the future Emperor Peter III and the Shuvalov brothers. The birth of Paul was an extremely important and anticipated event for the empress, so Elizabeth organized festivities on this occasion and took upon herself all the troubles of raising the heir. The Empress hired a whole staff of nannies and educators, completely isolating the child from his parents. Catherine II had almost no contact with Pavel Petrovich and had no opportunity to influence his upbringing.

Anna Petrovna

Princess Anna was born on December 9 (20), 1757 in the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. As in the case of Paul, Empress Elizabeth immediately took the baby to her chambers for upbringing, forbidding her parents to visit her. In honor of the birth of a girl, 101 shots were fired from the Peter and Paul Fortress around midnight. The baby was named Anna in honor of the Empress Elizabeth's sister, although Catherine intended to name her daughter Elizabeth. The baptism was carried out almost secretly: there were no guests or representatives of other powers, and the empress herself entered the church through a side door. For the birth of Anna, both parents received 60,000 rubles, which greatly delighted Peter and offended Catherine. The children of Catherine II from Peter grew up and were raised by strangers - nannies and teachers, which deeply saddened the future empress, but completely suited the current empress.

Stanislav August Poniatowski

Peter doubted his paternity and did not hide it; there were rumors at court that the real father was Stanislav Poniatowski, the future king of Poland. Anna lived for just over a year and died after a short illness. For Catherine II, the death of her daughter was a strong blow.

Illegitimate children

Children of Catherine II and Grigory Orlov

Alexey Bobrinsky

The relationship between Catherine II and Grigory Orlov was quite long, so many are inclined to the idea that the empress gave birth to several children about the count. However, information has been preserved about only one child - Alexei Bobrinsky. It is unknown whether Orlov and Catherine II had any more children, but Alexei is the official offspring of the couple. The boy became the first illegitimate child of the future empress and was born on April 11-12 (22), 1762 at the Summer Palace in St. Petersburg.

Immediately after birth, the boy was transferred to the family of Vasily Shkurin, Catherine’s wardrobe master, where he was brought up with Vasily’s other sons. Orlov recognized his son and secretly visited the boy with Catherine. The son of Catherine II from Grigory Orlov, despite all the efforts of his parents, grew up to be a mediocre and infantile man. Bobrinsky’s fate cannot be called tragic - he received a good education, arranged his life well with government funding, and even maintained friendly relations with his brother Pavel after his coronation.

Other children of Orlov and Catherine II

In various sources you can find references to other children of the empress and favorite, but there is not a single fact or document confirming their existence. Some historians are inclined to believe that Catherine II had several failed pregnancies, while others talk about stillborn children or those who died in infancy. There is also a version about Grigory Orlov’s illness and his inability to bear children after it. However, the count, having married, became a father again.

Children of Catherine II and Grigory Potemkin

Just like with Orlov, Catherine II had a close relationship with Potemkin for a long time, which is why there are many myths around this union. According to one version, Prince Potemkin and Catherine II had a daughter, born on July 13, 1775 in the Prechistensky Palace in Moscow. Existence itself Elizaveta Grigorievna Tyomkina There is no doubt - such a woman really existed, she even left behind 10 children. Tyomkina's portrait can be seen in the Tretyakov Gallery. What’s more important is that the woman’s origins are unknown.

The main reason for doubt that Elizabeth is the daughter of Potemkin and the Empress is the age of Catherine II at the time of the girl’s birth: at that time the Empress was about 45 years old. At the same time, the baby was transferred to be raised by the family of the prince’s sister; Potemkin appointed his nephew as guardian. The girl received a good education, Grigory allocated significant sums for her maintenance and worked hard for the marriage of his intended daughter. In this case, it is more obvious that Elizabeth’s father was Grigory Potemkin, while her mother could well have been one of his favorites, and not Empress Catherine.

Other illegitimate children of Catherine II

It is not known for certain how many children Empress Catherine II had and what their fate was. Different sources name different numbers of children and mention different fathers. According to some versions, miscarriages and stillborn babies were attributed to Catherine’s union with Potemkin, as well as with Orlov, but no evidence of this has survived.

The list of Catherine II's men includes men who figured in the intimate life of Empress Catherine the Great (1729-1796), including her spouses, official favorites and lovers. Catherine II has up to 21 lovers, but how can we object to the empress, then of course they had their own methods.

1. Catherine’s husband was Peter Fedorovich (Emperor Peter III) (1728-1762). They had a wedding in 1745, August 21 (September 1). The end of the relationship was June 28 (July 9), 1762 - death of Peter III. His children, according to the Romanov tree, Pavel Petrovich (1754) (according to one version, his father is Sergei Saltykov) and officially - Grand Duchess Anna Petrovna (1757-1759, most likely the daughter of Stanislav Poniatovsky). He suffered from a type of impotence, and in the first years he did not have marital relations with her. Then this problem was solved with the help of a surgical operation, and in order to perform it, Peter got Saltykov drunk.

2. While she was engaged, she also had an affair, Saltykov, Sergei Vasilievich (1726-1765). In 1752 he was at the small court of the Grand Dukes Catherine and Peter. The beginning of the novel in 1752. The end of the relationship was the birth of a child, Pavel, in October 1754. After which Saltykov was expelled from St. Petersburg and sent as envoy to Sweden.

3. Catherine's lover was Stanisław August Poniatowski (1732-1798) who fell in love in 1756. And in 1758, after the fall of Chancellor Bestuzhev, Williams and Poniatowski were forced to leave St. Petersburg. After the affair, her daughter Anna Petrovna (1757-1759) was born; Grand Duke Pyotr Fedorovich himself thought so, who, judging by Catherine’s Notes, said: “God knows how my wife gets pregnant; I don’t know for sure whether this child is mine and whether I should recognize him as mine.” In the future, Catherine will make him King of Poland, and then annex Poland and annex it to Russia.

4. Likewise, Catherine 2 was not upset and continued to fall in love. Her next secret lover was Orlov, Grigory Grigorievich (1734-1783). The beginning of the novel In the spring of 1759, Count Schwerin, the aide-de-camp of Frederick II, who was captured in the Battle of Zorndorf, arrived in St. Petersburg, to whom Orlov was assigned as a guard. Orlov gained fame by wresting his mistress from Pyotr Shuvalov. The end of the relationship in 1772, after the death of her husband, even she wanted to marry him and then she was dissuaded. Orlov had many mistresses. They also had a son, Bobrinsky, Alexey Grigorievich was born on April 22, 1762, a few months after the death of Elizaveta Petrovna. They report that on the day she went into labor, her faithful servant Shkurin set fire to his house, and Peter rushed off to watch the fire . Orlov and his passionate brothers contributed to the overthrow of Peter and the accession of Catherine to the throne. Having lost favor, he married his cousin Ekaterina Zinovieva, and after her death he went crazy.

5. Vasilchikov, Alexander Semyonovich (1746-1803/1813) Official favorite. Acquaintance in 1772, September. He often stood guard in Tsarskoye Selo and received a golden snuffbox. Took Orlov's room. 1774, March 20, in connection with the rise of Potemkin, he was sent to Moscow. Catherine considered him boring (14 years difference). After retirement, he settled in Moscow with his brother and did not marry.

6. Potemkin, Grigory Alexandrovich (1739-1791) Official favorite, husband since 1775. In April 1776 he went on vacation. Catherine gave birth to Potemkin's daughter, Elizaveta Grigorievna Tyomkina. Despite the gap in her personal life, thanks to her abilities, she maintained Catherine's friendship and respect and for many years remained the second person in the state. He was not married, his personal life consisted of “enlightening” his young nieces, including Ekaterina Engelgart.

7. Zavadovsky, Pyotr Vasilyevich (1739-1812) official favorite.
The beginning of the relationship in 1776. November, presented to the empress as an author, interested Catherine. In 1777, June did not suit Potemkin and was removed. Also in May 1777, Catherine met Zorich. He was jealous of Catherine 2, which did the damage. 1777 recalled by the empress back to the capital, 1780 engaged in administrative affairs, married Vera Nikolaevna Apraksina.

8. Zorich, Semyon Gavrilovich (1743/1745-1799). In 1777, June became Catherine's personal guard. 1778 June caused inconvenience, expelled from St. Petersburg (14 years younger than the Empress) Was dismissed and sent into retirement with little remuneration. Founded the Shklov School. Enmeshed in debt and suspected of counterfeiting.

9. Rimsky-Korsakov, Ivan Nikolaevich (1754-1831) Official favorite. 1778, June. Noticed by Potemkin, who was looking to replace Zorich, and distinguished by him due to his beauty, as well as ignorance and lack of serious abilities that could make him a political rival. Potemkin introduced him to the empress among three officers. On June 1, he was appointed aide-de-camp to the Empress. 1779, October 10. Removed from the court after the Empress found him in the arms of Countess Praskovya Bruce, sister of Field Marshal Rumyantsev. This intrigue of Potemkin had as its goal the removal not of Korsakov, but of Bruce herself. 25 years younger than the empress; Catherine was attracted by his announced “innocence.” He was very handsome and had an excellent voice (for his sake, Catherine invited world-famous musicians to Russia). After the loss of favor, he first stayed in St. Petersburg and talked in living rooms about his connection with the empress, which hurt her pride. In addition, he left Bruce and began an affair with Countess Ekaterina Stroganova (he was 10 years younger than her). This turned out to be too much, and Catherine sent him to Moscow. Stroganova’s husband eventually gave her a divorce. Korsakov lived with her until the end of her life, they had a son and two daughters.

10 Stakhiev (Strakhov) Beginning of relations 1778; 1779, June. End of relationship 1779, October. According to the description of contemporaries, “a jester of the lowest order.” Strakhov was a protégé of Count N.I. Panin Strakhov may be Ivan Varfolomeevich Strakhov (1750-1793), in which case he was not the empress’s lover, but a man whom Panin considered insane, and who, when Catherine once told him that he could ask her for some favor, threw himself on his knees and asked for her hand, after which she began to avoid him.

11 Stoyanov (Stanov) Beginning of relations 1778. The end of relations 1778. Potemkin’s protégé.

12 Rantsov (Rontsov), Ivan Romanovich (1755-1791) Beginning of the relationship 1779. Mentioned among those who participated in the “competition”; it is not entirely clear whether he managed to visit the empress’s alcove. End of relationship 1780. One of the illegitimate sons of Count R.I. Vorontsov, half-brother of Dashkova. A year later he led a London mob in riots organized by Lord George Gordon.

13 Levashov, Vasily Ivanovich (1740(?) - 1804). Beginning of relations 1779, October. End of relationship 1779, October. Major of the Semenovsky regiment, a young man protected by Countess Bruce. He was distinguished by his wit and cheerfulness. Uncle of one of the subsequent favorites - Ermolov. He was not married, but had 6 “pupils” from a student of the theater school Akulina Semyonova, who were granted the dignity of nobility and his surname.

14 Vysotsky, Nikolai Petrovich (1751-1827). Beginning of relationship 1780, March. Potemkin's nephew. End of relationship 1780, March.

15 Lanskoy, Alexander Dmitrievich (1758-1784) Official favorite. Beginning of relationship 1780 April He was introduced to Catherine by Chief of Police P.I. Tolstoy, she paid attention to him, but he did not become a favorite. Levashev turned to Potemkin for help, he made him his adjutant and supervised his court education for about six months, after which in the spring of 1780 he recommended him to the empress as a warm friend. The end of the relationship was 1784, July 25. He died after a five-day illness with toad and fever. 29 years younger than the 54-year-old at the time the empress began her relationship. The only one of the favorites who did not interfere in politics and refused influence, ranks, and orders. He shared Catherine’s interest in science and, under her guidance, studied French and became acquainted with philosophy. He enjoyed universal sympathy. He sincerely adored the Empress and tried his best to maintain peace with Potemkin. If Catherine began to flirt with someone else, Lanskoy “wasn’t jealous, didn’t cheat on her, wasn’t insolent, but so touchingly […] lamented her disfavor and suffered so sincerely that he won her love again.”

16. Mordvinov. Beginning of relationship 1781 May. Relative of Lermontov. Probably Mordvinov, Nikolai Semyonovich (1754-1845). The admiral's son, the same age as Grand Duke Paul, was brought up with him. The episode did not affect his biography and is usually not mentioned. He became a famous naval commander. Relative of Lermontov

17 Ermolov, Alexander Petrovich (1754-1834) February 1785, a holiday was specially organized to introduce the Empress to him. 1786, June 28. He decided to act against Potemkin (the Crimean Khan Sahib-Girey was supposed to receive large sums from Potemkin, but they were detained, and the khan turned to Ermolov for help), in addition, the empress also lost interest in him. He was expelled from St. Petersburg - he was “allowed to go abroad for three years.” In 1767, traveling along the Volga, Catherine stopped at his father’s estate and took the 13-year-old boy to St. Petersburg. Potemkin took him into his retinue, and almost 20 years later proposed him as a favorite. He was tall and slender, blond, gloomy, taciturn, honest and too simple. With letters of recommendation from the Chancellor, Count Bezborodko, he left for Germany and Italy. Everywhere he behaved very modestly. After retirement, he settled in Moscow and married Elizaveta Mikhailovna Golitsyna, with whom he had children. Nephew of the previous favorite - Vasily Levashov. Then he left for Austria, where he bought the rich and profitable Frosdorf estate near Vienna, where he died at the age of 82.

18. Dmitriev-Mamonov, Alexander Matveevich (1758-1803) In 1786, June was presented to the empress after the departure of Yermolov. 1789 fell in love with Princess Daria Fedorovna Shcherbatova, Catherine’s understanding was complete. asked for forgiveness, forgiven. After the wedding, he was forced to leave St. Petersburg. Future married people in Moscow. He repeatedly asked to return to St. Petersburg, but was refused. His wife gave birth to 4 children, and eventually they separated.

19.Miloradovich. The relationship began in 1789. He was among the candidates proposed after Dmitriev’s resignation. Their number also included retired second major of the Preobrazhensky regiment Kazarinov, Baron Mengden - all young handsome men, behind each of whom stood influential courtiers (Potemkin, Bezborodko, Naryshkin, Vorontsov and Zavadovsky). End of relationship 1789.

20. Miklashevsky. The beginning of the relationship was 1787. The end was 1787. Miklashevsky was a candidate, but did not become a favorite. According to evidence, during Catherine II’s trip to Crimea in 1787, a certain Miklashevsky was among the candidates for favorites. Perhaps it was Miklashevsky, Mikhail Pavlovich (1756-1847), who was part of Potemkin’s retinue as an adjutant (the first step to favor), but it is unclear from what year. In 1798, Mikhail Miklashevsky was appointed governor of Little Russia, but was soon dismissed. In biography, the episode with Catherine is usually not mentioned.

21. Zubov, Platon Alexandrovich (1767-1822) Official favorite. Beginning of relationship 1789, July. A protege of Field Marshal Prince N.I. Saltykov, the chief educator of Catherine’s grandchildren. End of relationship 1796, November 6. Catherine's last favorite. The relationship ended with her death. The 22-year-old at the time of the start of a relationship with the 60-year-old empress. The first official favorite since Potemkin, who was not his adjutant. N.I. Saltykov and A.N. Naryshkina stood behind him, and Perekusikhina also worked for him. He enjoyed great influence and practically managed to oust Potemkin, who threatened to “come and pull out a tooth.” Later he participated in the assassination of Emperor Paul. Shortly before his death, he married a young, humble and poor Polish beauty and was terribly jealous of her.

Memory of Catherine 2. Monuments dedicated to her.