Abstract:
Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia, reigned from 1762 until her death in 1796. Her reign would be called Russia's golden age and she would expand and bring enlightened reforms to Russia. Catherine was born German and had no claim to the throne by birth. She would spend her life cultivating herself, studying, and maneuvering to achieve her ruling ambitions. She was an underdog figure that would overcome many hurdles and is an example for anyone striving to achieve greatness. She had challenges, highs and lows in her life, and a determination to pursue ambition that was remarkable. She is a person who lived a life worthy of study in order to learn how she became "great" so that others can learn how to succeed in their own ambitions.
