What does "Potemkin facade" mean?
5 months agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1
: Understand the term "Potemkin facade."

A "Potemkin facade" is a metaphor for an impressive facade or appearance that is designed to hide a less desirable or less impressive reality. The term comes from a historical account about Russian Prince Grigory Potemkin, who was said to have created fake settlements along the Dnieper River in order to impress Empress Catherine II during her journey in 1787. These settlements were essentially facades, meant to give the appearance of prosperity and development, when in reality they were temporary and insubstantial.

Final Answer

The term "Potemkin facade" refers to an impressive façade or appearance designed to hide a less desirable reality.