Empress Anna

Empress Anna Ioannovna was the ruler of Russia from 1730 to 1740. A daughter of Tsar Ivan V, she became empress after her cousin, Peter II, died without an heir. Her reign is noted for the continuation of autocratic rule and efforts to strengthen the Russian Empire. Anna favored luxury and the arts, exemplified by her extravagant court at St. Petersburg. She also relied on close advisors, including the powerful Duke Ernst Johann von Biron. Her rule faced challenges, including political intrigue and military conflicts, and after her death, the throne passed to her niece, Elizabeth.