Grigory Potemkin is a very famous historical figure. Many people know about him from books, films and television programs. Potemkin is a very controversial figure, but at the same time he left his mark on the history of Russia.
Biography of the future prince of Tauride
Grigory Alexandrovich was born on September 13, 1739 near Smolensk in the village of Chizhovo. Potemkin was from a small but noble Polish family. His ancestors served at court, and his father was a participant in the wars of Peter the Great and had the rank of retired lieutenant colonel.
Potemkin’s father (a small nobleman) died early, and the boy was brought up by his mother and uncle in Moscow. Gregory was educated first in the private guesthouse of Litkel, which was located in the German settlement, and then at Moscow University. At first he was one of the best students, but then he became lazy, and he was expelled "for absenteeism." Possessing an excellent memory and zeal for science, he has been engaged in self-education all his life. Gregory knew French and German quite well; he studied Latin, Ancient Greek and Old Slavonic. Potemkin was an Orthodox Christian, was actively interested in theology and other church literature.
Potemkin’s career and his contribution to the history of Russia
As early as 1755, young Gregory was recorded in the Horse Guards. In 1761, he served as adjutant to Prince George of Holstein, who was the uncle of Emperor Peter III.
Grigory Alexandrovich’s character was hot and very controversial, it combined laziness, love of luxury and ostentatious gestures with incredible hard work, energy and love for the motherland.
Potemkin took part in the coup in June 1762, for which he was promoted to lieutenant, received the title of junk chamber and as many as 400 serf souls. Thanks to friendship with the Orlovs, Gregory was admitted to the court and participated in the Synod.
In 1767, he was elected to the Stated Commission. In 1768, Potemkin was granted the rank of real chamberlain. During the Russo-Turkish war, he fought with the rank of major general and distinguished himself in the most important battles at Larg, Cahul, Fokshany, and Ryaboy Grave. For valiant service, Potemkin was promoted to lieutenant general and awarded the orders of St. Anne and St. George 3rd degree.
