Elizabeth of Russia

Elizabeth seized the throne in a bloodless coup, overthrowing the infant Ivan VI and his regent. She was supported by the Preobrazhensky Regiment and popular sentiment against German dominance. Her accession restored the line of Peter the Great and was celebrated as a national revival.

Elizabeth commissioned the reconstruction of the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo, designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli. The palace, with its elaborate Baroque style, became a symbol of imperial opulence and a center of court life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Elizabeth abolished internal customs tariffs and tolls within Russia, which had hindered trade and economic development. This reform simplified taxation, promoted internal commerce, and increased state revenue through higher import duties. It was a significant step toward economic modernization.

Elizabeth signed the decree establishing Moscow University, the first university in Russia, on the initiative of Mikhail Lomonosov. The university became a center of learning and science, promoting education and reducing reliance on foreign scholars. It remains a leading institution today.

Elizabeth led Russia into the Seven Years' War against Prussia, allying with Austria and France. Russian forces achieved major victories, including the occupation of Berlin in 1760. The war drained Russian resources but demonstrated its military power. Elizabeth's death in 1762 led to a reversal of policy.