Olga Alexandrovna Romanova, Grand Duchess of the Russian Imperial House, was the youngest daughter of Emperor Alexander III. At the time of her death, she remained the last Grand Duchess of the Romanov family.
She was born in 1882 in Peterhof, in the Cottage Palace near St. Petersburg. Olga was raised at court first by her father, Emperor Alexander III, and then by her brother, Nicholas II. In honor of her birth, a cannon salute was fired at the Peter and Paul Fortress. Following the advice of her aunt Alexandra of Denmark, Queen of the United Kingdom, she was educated by an English governess, Elizabeth Franklin. Due to the threat of terrorist attacks, the imperial family decided to raise Olga in the Gatchina Palace, located 40 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Olga and her sister grew up in a strict and simple environment: they slept on hard camp beds, got up early in the morning, washed with cold water, and had oatmeal for breakfast.
As an adult, Olga continued to lead a modest lifestyle. Archpriest Georgy Shavelsky recalled that among all the members of the imperial family, she stood out for her simplicity, accessibility, and democratic spirit. In her estate in the Voronezh province, she often interacted with peasants and cared for their children. In St. Petersburg, Olga preferred walking and rides in simple carriages, with whom she enjoyed conversing.
After the October Revolution, Olga lived in Denmark and then in Canada, outliving all the other children of Emperor Alexander III. Throughout her life, she painted over 2000 works, the proceeds from which helped her support her family and engage in charity.
Shortly before her death, Olga Alexandrovna began to compose a literary testament for future generations, working on it for over a year with a trusted person. Her autobiographical book, "Memoirs of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna," begins with her last words.
Olga Alexandrovna passed away at the age of 78 in 1960 in Toronto, Canada.
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