Catherine I tried to protect Peter's legacy and named his grandson, Peter II, as her successor. He inherited power as a child and preferred games and riding to preparation for government. Alexander Menshikov's insistence that he study history and other subjects helped make the appointed guardian unwelcome. Government then depended on the young ruler's favourites, with influence following whoever pleased him. Peter II's early death left Russia facing another succession, while Sweden gained some respite from the instability of its larger neighbour.
Chapter · 1:28:22-1:33:32
Catherine I names an heir who rejects preparation to rule
Catherine I recognised Peter's grandson as successor, but Peter II's dependence on favourites undermined the attempt to give the young emperor an effective government.