IB DP History: Authoritarian Rule – Russia under Empress Catherine II (1762–1796)

Specifically written for the new IB DP History syllabus (First Exams 2028).

Extend your students’ understanding of authoritarianism into the 18th century with this case study on “Enlightened Absolutism.” This resource examines how Catherine the Great consolidated autocratic power while engaging with the ideas of the Enlightenment, providing a unique contrast to 20th-century examples.

What’s included?
A detailed outline mapped to the four inquiry questions:

Emergence: The 1762 coup, the need for noble support, and the concept of Enlightened Absolutism.

Maintenance: Granting privileges to the nobility (Charter of the Nobility), patronage of the arts, administrative centralization, and the use of force against revolt.

Impact on Lives: The “Golden Age” of the nobility vs. the worsening conditions of the serfs; the paradox of a powerful woman ruler upholding patriarchy.

Challenges: The massive Pugachev Rebellion (1773–75) and the ideological threat of the French Revolution.

Key Features:

Chronological Breadth: Ideal for covering the 1750+ timeframe and showing the evolution of authoritarian rule.

Conceptual Focus: Clearly distinguishes between “Enlightened Absolutism” and modern totalitarianism.

Social History: Strong focus on the experiences of serfs (marginalized group) and the unique position of a female autocrat.

Give your students a nuanced view of pre-modern authoritarianism with this ready-to-use outline.