Catherine the Great (1762–1796): Enlightened Absolutism and Empire Building

Catherine the Great's reign was a pivotal period that solidified Russia's status as a major European power while fundamentally reshaping its social and legal landscape. This course explores how she balanced Enlightenment ideals with the realities of absolute rule. By the end of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the political, military, and social forces at work during the late 18th century, enabling you to critically analyze the lasting legacy of her domestic reforms and aggressive foreign policy. What you'll learn: * Analyze the principles of Enlightened Absolutism and the role of the Legislative Commission and the Nakaz (Instruction) in her early reforms. * Understand the critical social structures of the period, including the strengthening of serfdom and the privileges granted by the Charter to the Nobility. * Examine the major internal challenges to her rule, focusing on the causes and consequences of Pugachev’s Rebellion and the Gubernia reforms. * Master the geopolitical context of the Russo-Turkish Wars, the annexation of Crimea, and the strategic development of the Black Sea Fleet. * Evaluate the complex process and long-term implications of the three Partitions of Poland and the expansion of the western borders of the Russian Empire. * Practice analyzing primary source excerpts to interpret 18th-century legal and political thought. The course begins by defining the core concepts of her rule, transitioning into a detailed study of her domestic policies and societal changes. We then shift focus to her ambitious foreign policy, covering military conflicts, territorial expansion, and the establishment of new imperial provinces. This course is designed for absolute beginners interested in Russian or European history. No prior knowledge of 18th-century governance or military history is required. Start reading today to uncover the history of one of the most powerful female rulers in history.