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Biron or Bühren, Ernst Johann 1690-1772
Duke of Courland
Born in Kalnciems, Courland (now Latvia), he assumed the name and arms of the French Ducs de Biron, when, as favourite of Anna Ivanovna, he became the real ruler of Russia on her accession to the throne (1730). He was blamed for most of the misfortunes of the time, especially exploitation of the nation's resources for personal gain, but greatly improved the country's administration. In 1737 Anna made him Duke of Courland, and on her death (1740) he assumed the regency, but was arrested and banished to Siberia. Peter III allowed him to return in 1762 and he was eventually given back his titles.
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Chambers Biographical Dictionary
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Consult Chambers 21st Century Dictionary, The Chambers Thesaurus (1996) or Chambers Biographical Dictionary (1997 edition with amendments). Enter your search and choose your title from the drop-down menu.
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