How did Catherine the great change russia
The modernize and westernize it
She reformed Russia economy
She founded the Kievan rus
She expanded Russia's territory
Catherine the Great, who ruled as Empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796, implemented a series of reforms that significantly changed and modernized the country. Some of the key changes she made include:
1. Westernizing Russia: Catherine wanted to bring Russia closer to the cultural and intellectual advancements taking place in Western Europe. She encouraged the adoption of Enlightenment ideas and values, promoted education, established schools, and invited foreign scholars and artists to Russia. She also introduced Western-style dress, architecture, and literature, making Russian society more cosmopolitan.
2. Expanding Territory: Catherine embarked on an aggressive foreign policy, expanding Russia's territory through a series of military victories and acquisitions. She annexed Crimea, Belarus, Lithuania, and parts of Poland, essentially doubling the size of the Russian Empire. This expansion strengthened Russia's geopolitical influence and increased its access to key resources and trade routes.
3. Reforms in Governance: Catherine aimed to strengthen the rule of law and make the government more efficient. She introduced administrative and judicial reforms, focused on improving education and training for civil servants, and implemented a more organized system of local government. This helped streamline governance and bring about greater stability in the administration of the empire.
4. Economic Reforms: Catherine implemented measures to modernize and diversify Russia's economy. She encouraged industrialization, particularly in mining, manufacturing, and agriculture. She established trade links with European countries, promoted the growth of urban centers, and supported the development of infrastructure, such as roads and canals. These reforms helped stimulate economic growth and improved living conditions for many Russians.
5. Social Reforms: Catherine introduced various social reforms aimed at improving the lives of her subjects. She sought to emancipate the Russian serfs, although her attempts were ultimately unsuccessful. She also implemented measures to improve healthcare, education, and the treatment of prisoners. While these reforms did not achieve all their intended goals, they represented steps towards a more progressive and humane society.
Overall, Catherine the Great's reign brought significant changes to Russia, modernizing the country and expanding its influence both domestically and internationally. Her reforms laid the foundation for later developments and set Russia on a path to becoming a major European power.