Emelyan Pugachev

Emelyan Pugachev was a Russian peasant leader who led a major uprising against the Russian monarchy between 1773 and 1775. Claiming to be the deceased Emperor Peter III, Pugachev rallied support from discontented serfs, Cossacks, and peasants, opposing harsh conditions and injustices of serfdom. His rebellion gained significant momentum, capturing large territories in Russia. However, it was ultimately suppressed by government forces. Pugachev was captured and executed in 1775. His uprising highlighted the deep social grievances in Russia and is often seen as a precursor to future movements for reform and revolution.