Alexander Menshikov

Prince Alexander Danilovich Menshikov was a Russian soldier and statesman. His official titles included generalissimo, prince of the Russian Empire, duke of Izhora, prince of the Holy Roman Empire, and duke of Cosel. Rising from humble origins, he became a highly appreciated associate and friend of Tsar Peter the Great, leading to his rise as a prominent political and military figure in early 18th-century Russia. Following Peter's death, he was the de facto ruler of Russia from 1725 to 1727.