Empress Elizabeth stabilizes Russia at a price

Elizabeth's long reign restored continuity after Russia's succession turmoil. She refused to execute anyone during her reign and supported major construction, Enlightenment ambitions, the University of Moscow, and an elaborate court. Russian forces performed strongly in the War of the Austrian Succession and Seven Years' War, even briefly occupying Berlin. Her reliance on noble cooperation weakened central control in local government and shortened obligations to state service. She also produced no direct heir, partly because marriage and children could reopen the factional conflicts she was trying to stabilize. Her choices worked in the immediate political setting while leaving structural problems for those who followed.