Aleksandr Danilovich Menshikov (16 November [O.S.

6 November] 1673, Moscow – 23 November [O.S.

12 November] 1729, Berezov) is a Russian statesman, whose official titles include Prince of the Russian Empire and Duke of Izhora (Duke of Ingria), Prince of the Holy Roman Empire, Duke of Cosel.

A highly appreciated associate and friend of Tsar Peter the Great, he is the de facto ruler of Russia for two years.