Anna Ivanovna

I've finished reading an old biography of Tsarista Anna Ivanovna, niece of Peter the Great. I knew little about Anna until I borrowed a library copy of the book.
In the introduction to the book, Mina Curtiss was asked why she choose to write about Anna. Her response: "Because she wasn't there." (In 1962 Curtiss first traveled to Russia with her brother who was director of the New York City Ballet on their 1st tour there)
I learned a lot about Anna (1693-1740) and her reign as Empress of All the Russias. When she was born, Russia was undergoing an exciting time of growth. As Empress, Anna continued to open Russia up like her famous uncle; arts and culture flourished. There were some dark aspects as well. Period prints and portraits are included.
There are few books about Anna written in English so this was worth the read. The book is out of print so you have to make a special request through your local library for it.

A Forgotten Empress: Anna Ivanovna and Her Era, 1730-1740 by Mina Curitss (1974)

VERY interesting! Thank you!