Elizabeth of Russia vs Gulab Singh

Elizabeth seized the throne in a bloodless coup, overthrowing the infant Ivan VI and his regent. She was supported by the Preobrazhensky Regiment and popular sentiment against German dominance. Her accession restored the line of Peter the Great and was celebrated as a national revival.

Elizabeth commissioned the reconstruction of the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoye Selo, designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli. The palace, with its elaborate Baroque style, became a symbol of imperial opulence and a center of court life. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Elizabeth abolished internal customs tariffs and tolls within Russia, which had hindered trade and economic development. This reform simplified taxation, promoted internal commerce, and increased state revenue through higher import duties. It was a significant step toward economic modernization.

Elizabeth signed the decree establishing Moscow University, the first university in Russia, on the initiative of Mikhail Lomonosov. The university became a center of learning and science, promoting education and reducing reliance on foreign scholars. It remains a leading institution today.

Elizabeth led Russia into the Seven Years' War against Prussia, allying with Austria and France. Russian forces achieved major victories, including the occupation of Berlin in 1760. The war drained Russian resources but demonstrated its military power. Elizabeth's death in 1762 led to a reversal of policy.

Gulab Singh, as a general under the Sikh Empire, led campaigns to conquer Ladakh and Baltistan. These territories were annexed to his domain, expanding his control into the Himalayas and Central Asia.

Gulab Singh's forces captured Gilgit, a strategic region in the Karakoram. This annexation extended his territory to the borders of Afghanistan and China, securing control over key trade routes.

After the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British East India Company recognized Gulab Singh as the independent Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir through the Treaty of Amritsar. He paid 7.5 million rupees for the territory, becoming the first ruler of the princely state.

During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Gulab Singh remained loyal to the British and suppressed revolts within his territory. He provided troops and resources to the British, strengthening his position as a loyal princely ruler.