Although Peter III, born in 1728 as Karl Peter Ulrich of Holstein-Gottorp, only ruled Russia for six months, his influenence on history was considerable and his controversial character is still highly debated among scholars. Peter was a great admirer of Frederick the Great, and immediately following his accession he made peace with Prussia, formed an alliance with Frederick and began making plans for a war with Denmark. However before the plans were brought to life, Peter was overthrown by a conspiracy led by his wife, Catherine (the Great), and ended his life at the hands of his own guards.