Her Autopsy Saved Her Reputation
Posthumous examinations of Catherine the Great’s body dispelled sensationalized rumors about her death, providing a factual account that contradicted audacious claims. Contrary to scandalous narratives, the autopsy revealed that Catherine succumbed to a massive stroke, similar to the official cause of her husband Peter III’s death.
This examination debunked unfounded tales, such as the baseless rumor of her demise during an attempt at relations with a horse. The autopsy played a crucial role in preserving Catherine’s reputation from salacious falsehoods, ensuring a more accurate understanding of her final moments.