1. Continuation of Peter the Great's Policies: Catherine II admired and was inspired by Peter the Great, the Russian ruler who actively pursued territorial expansion and modernization. She viewed herself as his rightful heir and continued many of his imperial ambitions, including the expansion of Russia's borders and enhancing its status as a major European power.
2. Strategic Considerations: Catherine saw territorial expansion as a way to secure Russia's borders and increase its strategic depth. She particularly focused on gaining access to the Black Sea and the Baltic Sea, which would provide important trade routes and geopolitical advantages. By expanding Russia's empire, she aimed to protect the nation's interests and assert its influence on the international stage.
3. The Polish Partitions: Catherine played a significant role in the partitions of Poland, which allowed Russia to acquire vast new territories. These partitions resulted from a combination of strategic and pragmatic factors, including a desire to weaken Poland's influence in the region and prevent it from allying with other European powers against Russia.
4. Diplomacy and International Prestige: Catherine understood that a strong and expansive empire could enhance Russia's diplomatic standing in the concert of European powers. By actively pursuing territorial expansion, she sought to increase Russia's influence, prestige, and bargaining power in international negotiations and alliances.
5. Economic Expansion and Resources: Territorial gains often brought with them valuable resources, such as fertile land, natural resources, and access to new trade routes. Expansion of the empire could contribute to Russia's economic growth and development.
6. Domestic Pressure and Legitimacy: Catherine faced several internal challenges during her reign, including internal revolts and peasant unrest. Turning her attention to external conquests and military glory could serve as a convenient strategy to divert public attention away from domestic problems and consolidate her power.
7. National Pride and Russian Identity: Catherine sought to cultivate a sense of national pride, unity, and identity among her subjects. Military victories and territorial expansion evoked feelings of patriotism and reinforced a strong Russian national identity.
While these reasons may have influenced her choices at times, it is important to note that Catherine the Great's approach to modernization, internal reforms, and imperial expansion was fluid and adjusted in response to changing circumstances. She also continued to pursue domestic reforms, such as the promotion of education, modernization of the legal system, and the emancipation of certain groups, throughout her reign.