Catherine the Great's husband, Emperor Peter III, abdicated his throne and was assassinated just eight days later.
The Demise of Emperor Peter III
Peter III's short reign as Emperor of Russia concluded with a swift and dramatic series of events. Following a coup orchestrated primarily by his wife, Catherine, and her loyalists, Peter III was forced to abdicate his imperial title on July 9, 1762. His abdication paved the way for Catherine's ascension to power.
Tragically, his life was cut short very soon after. Just over a week after he relinquished the throne, Peter III was assassinated.
Catherine's Implicated Role
Although historical accounts suggest that Catherine likely did not directly order the murder of her husband, the assassination was undeniably carried out by her supporters. This crucial detail meant that despite her potential lack of direct command, public opinion largely held her responsible for Peter III's death. This event solidified her position as the sole ruler and marked the beginning of her long and impactful reign as Empress Catherine II, later known as Catherine the Great.
