Paul I

Paul I. (1754-1801), Emperor of Russia, was the son of Peter III., who was murdered when he was in his ninth year. During the lifetime of his mother, Catherine II., he was not allowed to take any part in public affairs. He became emperor on her death in 1796, and soon excited the greatest discontent by his despotic and arbitrary measures. At first he took part with the Allies against France, despatching Suvaroff to the seat of war; but in 1799 be formed an alliance with Napoleon. He was killed whilst an attempt was being made to seize him by a band of Russian nobles, who intended to force him to abdicate.