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He rose from humble origins, accompanying Peter the Great on his tour of western Europe. Fought in the war against Sweden and helped conquer the territory that became the site of Saint Petersburg, becoming the first governor-general of the new city.
Menshikov was a perfect example of Peter the Great's policy of the " Table of Ranks" where people could gain and advance their position in the society based on their merits before the Emperor. Menshikov began his career as a cook and after years of service to the Emperor, and as a loyal friend, Menshikov became known as one of the most powerful nobles in all of Russia.
After Peter's death, his widow Catherine I became empress and entrusted Menshikov with virtual rule of Russia. However, after her death, Menshikov's opponents removed him from power and exiled him to Siberia, where he died in poverty.