The Duchy of Courland and Semigallia, situated along the western coast of modern-day Latvia, thrived under the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth since the late Middle Ages. This region developed a unique identity marked by its own governance and culture, typified by the rule of the Dukes of Courland. Initially expanding to include territories in the Americas and the Caribbean during the early 18th century, the duchy showcased a degree of autonomy within the Commonwealth framework. However, the political landscape of Central and Eastern Europe was transformed by the persistent encroachments of powerful neighbors, particularly Russia, Prussia, and Austria, which culminated in the late 18th century with the partitions of Poland.The Third Partition of Poland was finalized in 1795, resulting in the complete dissolution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Following this political upheaval, Courland and Semigallia were annexed by the Russian Empire as part of broader territorial acquisitions. This shift not only altered the fate of its inhabitants but also marked the end of a significant era for the duchy itself. Integration into Russia brought about significant administrative changes, alongside the introduction of new policies that would affect its social and economic structures.The transition of Courland and Semigallia into Imperial Russian control reflects a pivotal moment in Baltic history, as this annexation meant that two culturally distinct regions now fell under the influence of a vast empire that sought to consolidate its power in the region. The impact of this event reverberated through the decades that followed, shaping the political, cultural, and social identity of both Courland and Semigallia and influencing the trajectory of Baltic history for centuries to come.