The Second Partition of Poland occurred in 1793, following the first partition in 1772. This event involved the division of Polish territory between the neighboring powers of Prussia and Russia, significantly reducing Poland's size and influence. The partition was largely driven by the desire of these powers to expand their territories and eliminate the weakened Polish state. The partition was formalized through a treaty, which was not recognized by the Polish government. This event further weakened Poland, leading to its eventual disappearance from the map of Europe until the end of World War I. The Second Partition set the stage for the final partition in 1795.