Since the time of Peter I, two groups of Germans have appeared in Russia - natives of various German states and territories who entered the Russian service, and Livonian and Estland Germans who lived on the Baltic lands annexed to the Russian Empire. Catherine II, who continued the policy of Peter I to strengthen and modernize the state and its economy, by a manifesto of July 22, 1763 invited foreigners to relocate to Russia on preferential terms for them. For three centuries, these Germans, who became Russian subjects, made a significant contribution to the development of the country's economy, science and culture. A significant contribution was made by the Germans, who served Russia under a contract, but returned to their homeland.