What happened to Poland at the end of 18th century.

At the end of the 18th century, Poland underwent a series of partitions that resulted in the elimination of sovereign Poland for 123 years. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. First Partition (1772): The first partition of Poland was proposed by Russia. Austria was reluctant at first but eventually agreed to participate. Prussia also joined in the partition, eager to gain some territory. As a result, Poland lost about 30% of its territory, which was divided among Russia, Prussia, and Austria.

2. Second Partition (1793): The second partition was carried out by Russia and Prussia. This was a result of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth's attempts to reform and strengthen the constitution, which was seen as a threat by its more powerful neighbors. This time, Poland lost about half of its remaining territory.

3. Third Partition (1795): The third and final partition was carried out by all three powers: Russia, Prussia, and Austria. This partition was triggered by a Polish uprising, the Kosciuszko Uprising, which was a last-ditch effort to save the country. The uprising failed, and as a result, the remaining territory of Poland was divided among the three powers. After this partition, Poland ceased to exist as a country for the next 123 years.

4. The Aftermath: The Polish people did not accept these partitions and there were many uprisings and resistance movements. Despite the loss of formal independence, Poland's culture, language, and identity were kept alive through these efforts. Poland would not regain its independence until the end of World War I in 1918.