Serge Saltykov

Sergei Vasilievich Saltykov (c. 1726 - 1765) was a noble Russian officer who became the first lover of Empress Ekaterina the Great after her arrival to Russia.

Related Topics:
1726 - 1765 - Russian - Ekaterina the Great

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In her memoirs, Catherine spread rumours that he was the actual father of her son Pavel I of Russia. Most historians believe that her insinuations were motivated by personal animosity towards Pavel and desire to hurt him. Actually, Pavel resembled his official father Peter III of Russia in character and appearance to a T. There was very little in common between the pugnacious, short Pavel and tall, handsome Serge Saltykov.

Related Topics:
Pavel I of Russia - Peter III of Russia

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Sergei was the son of Count Vassili Saltykov and his wife, Princess Maria Golitsyna. The Saltykovs were an ancient boyar family which rivalled the Romanovs in nobility. The mother of Empress Anna, for example, came from this family.

Related Topics:
Saltykov - Golitsyna - Romanovs - Empress Anna

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