Paragraph Writing Based upon what you have learnt in your research, answer the question below in paragraph format (Topic Sentence , Explanation, Evidence, Concluding Sentence): What made Catherine "the Great"?

Catherine the Great, also known as Catherine II, was the Empress of Russia from 1762 until 1796. She is considered one of the most powerful and influential women in history, and her reign is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Russia. There are several factors that made Catherine "the Great," including her intelligence, ambition, and political acumen.<br /><br />Firstly, Catherine was known for her intelligence and thirst for knowledge. She was a voracious reader and had a deep understanding of politics, philosophy, and literature. This allowed her to make informed decisions and implement policies that benefited the country. For example, she introduced reforms in education, agriculture, and industry, which helped to modernize Russia and improve the lives of its citizens.<br /><br />Secondly, Catherine's ambition and determination played a crucial role in her success. She was not content with simply maintaining the status quo, but instead sought to expand Russia's borders and increase its influence on the international stage. This was evident in her military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and the partitions of Poland, which resulted in the expansion of Russian territory and the establishment of the country as a major European power.<br /><br />Finally, Catherine's political acumen and ability to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries in Europe were instrumental in her success. She was a skilled diplomat and was able to maintain good relations with other European powers, while also asserting Russia's interests. This was demonstrated in her negotiations with the Prussian king Frederick the Great and her ability to maintain a balance of power in Europe.<br /><br />In conclusion, Catherine the Great's intelligence, ambition, and political acumen made her one of the most powerful and influential women in history. Her reign was marked by significant reforms and military campaigns that helped to modernize Russia and establish it as a major European power.