In history, the main roles were often played not only by those who occupied the throne, but also by those who were nearby. Among them were outstanding statesmen and clever adventurers, talented politicians and cunning intriguers. Grigory Orlov, Grigory Potemkin, Platon Zubov - these and other people who surrounded Empress Catherine the Great managed to reach the heights of power and occupy a prominent place in the history of the Russian state. This volume presents biographical essays about Grigory Orlov, Grigory Potemkin, Ekaterina Dashkova and other associates and the favorites who formed the entourage of Empress Catherine the Great. Written in good language, lively and fascinating, the book will undoubtedly attract the attention of everyone interested in Russian history.