Empress Anna Ivanovna (context)

Empress Anna Ivanovna was a Russian ruler who reigned from 1730 to 1740, known for her eccentric and often unpredictable reign. She was the daughter of Peter the Great and became empress after the death of her brother, Emperor Ivan VI. Her rule was marked by heavy spending, political intrigue, and reliance on unpopular court favorites, which led to instability. Despite her lack of strong leadership, her reign reflected the complex power dynamics of Russian aristocracy and court life during the 18th century. Anna Ivanovna’s rule ended when she was deposed, paving the way for her successor, Elizabeth Petrovna.