Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst, commonly known as Catherine the Great, was born on May 2, 1729, in Stettin, Prussia. She was a German princess who became Empress of Russia after marrying the future Emperor Peter III. Her reign lasted from 1762 until her death in 1796, making her one of the longest-serving female rulers in history. Catherine is known for her significant contributions to the modernization and expansion of the Russian Empire. She implemented various reforms in government, education, and culture, promoting the arts and fostering the Enlightenment in Russia. Her leadership helped transform Russia into a major European power.