Unprotected, protected, and armoured cruisers

Esmeralda is the protected-cruiser example, distinct from both unprotected and armoured types. The Russian General-Admiral is introduced as the world's first armoured cruiser. Russia wanted a worldwide naval presence comparable to those of Britain and France because its leaders linked overseas deployment with great-power status. The ambition far exceeded the country's industrial capacity. In this interpretation, Catherine the Great stands out as one of the few Russian rulers with a practical grasp of realpolitik. Prestige could therefore drive cruiser procurement alongside practical missions.