Hi, need to submit a 1500 words paper on the topic Catherine the Great in the Eyes of Many Historians and Scholars of Russian History. The reign of Catherine had a lasting impact on Russia, both during her life and after her death. At the end of her time, Russia had become a true world superpower, different from the other European nations in both its size and power to impose its interests. Moreover, unlike other European countries, Russia retained its tradition of serfdom. A lack of colonial presence abroad and a lack of participation in the Industrial Revolution left Russia lagging behind the progress of its neighbors. This may be attributed to the quality of Russia’s leadership after the death of Catherine, and to the wars, Russia found itself fighting at the time. It was instrumental for the Russian state to becoming a modernized and westernized part of the world. Eventually, the difference between Russia and other European countries at this time would be as stark as the difference between progress and stagnation. Catherine the Great was instrumental in Russia’s cultural and political advancement near the end of the 18th century, and for the westernization (or modernization) of the Russian state. In the context of her rule, Catherine’s influence cannot be understated for bestowing temporary greatness on Russia. She recognized the need to continue the efforts of her predecessors in bringing about foreign and domestic development for the future of Russia, doing so forcefully and with great effectiveness. Because of Catherine, Russia became more European than Asian, which proved to be monumental for the nation’s future.