Catherine the Great

Hello! My name is Catherine, but many people know me as Catherine the Great. I wasn't always called Catherine, though. When I was born on May 2nd, 1729, in a kingdom called Prussia, my name was Sophie. As a little princess, I didn't care much for playing with dolls. My favorite thing to do was read books! I read everything I could find. I loved learning about new ideas, faraway places, and important people from history. When I was 14 years old, I was invited on a long journey to a huge and powerful country called Russia. I had no idea then, but this trip would change my life forever.

When I arrived in Russia, everything felt so new and different. The language, the clothes, the weather—it was a whole new world! I wanted to be a true part of this country, so I worked very hard to learn the Russian language and understand its ways. I decided to change my name from Sophie to Catherine. Soon after, in 1745, I married a man named Peter, who was the heir to the Russian throne. It was a very big change for a girl from Prussia, but I was determined to make Russia my home. I fell in love with the country and its people.

In the year 1762, I became the ruler of all of Russia—the Empress! It was a huge job, but I was ready. I remembered all the books I had read about great leaders, and I had big dreams for my new country. I wanted to make Russia stronger, smarter, and more beautiful. I helped build more than one hundred new towns and started schools for children. Because I loved art so much, in 1764 I started a special collection of paintings and sculptures. This collection grew into one of the most famous museums in the world, called the Hermitage Museum. I wanted everyone to be able to see beautiful things and learn new ideas.

I ruled Russia for 34 years and worked hard every day. I lived to be 67 years old. Today, people remember me as 'Catherine the Great' because during my time as empress, Russia grew bigger and stronger. My love for books, art, and new ideas helped bring a time of learning and excitement to the country. I hope my story shows you that a love for learning can take you on the most wonderful adventures.