Anna of Russia
Anna Ioannovna (Russian: Анна Иоанновна; 7 February [O.S. 28 January] 1693 – 28 October [O.S. 17 October] 1740), also spelled Anna Ivanovna and sometimes anglicized as Anne, was regent of the duchy of Courland from 1711 until 1730 and then ruled as empress of Russia from 1730 to 1740.
Early life
Anna was born in Moscow as the daughter of Tsar Ivan V—the mentally-disabled brother of Peter the Great—and of Praskovia Saltykova. She was primarily raised by her mother, a very stern woman. By Praskovia's orders Anna was to be raised for the nunnery; she grew up confined to a royal cult of domesticity. This type of confinement was known to not allow for development of personality and explains the cruel tendencies of Anna, who followed in her mother's footsteps. Her education consisted of French, German, dancing, religious text, and folklore. As she grew older she proved obstinate, with a mean streak, earning her the nickname "Ivan the Terrible". Her family moved to St. Petersburg by order of Tsar Peter the Great, and this had a significant effect on Anna; she enjoyed the grandeur society.