Catherine II of Russia, called the Great (Russian: Екатерина II Великая, Yekaterina II Velikaya; 2 May O.S. 21 April] 1729 – 17 November O.S. 6 November] 1796) reigned as Empress of Russia for some 34 years, from June 28, 1762 until her death. Her rule exemplified that of an enlightened despot.