Since ancient times, the Slavs, our direct ancestors, lived in the vastness of the East European Plain. It is still unknown exactly when they arrived there. Be that as it may, they soon spread widely throughout the great waterway of those years. Slavic cities and villages arose from the Baltic to the Black Sea. Despite the fact that they were of the same clan-tribe, relations between them were never particularly peaceful.
In constant civil strife, the tribal princes quickly became exalted, who soon became Great and began to rule all of Kievan Rus. These were the first rulers of Rus', whose names have come to us through the endless series of centuries that have passed since then.
Rurik (862-879)
There is still fierce debate among scientists about the reality of this historical figure. Either there was such a person, or he is a collective character, whose prototype was all the first rulers of Rus'. Either he was a Varangian or a Slav. By the way, we practically do not know who the rulers of Rus' were before Rurik, so in this matter everything is based solely on assumptions.
Slavic origin is very likely, since he could have been nicknamed Rurik for his nickname Falcon, which was translated from the Old Slavic language into Norman dialects as “Rurik”. Be that as it may, he is considered the founder of the entire Old Russian state. Rurik united (as far as possible) many Slavic tribes under his hand.
However, almost all the rulers of Rus' were involved in this matter with varying degrees of success. It is thanks to their efforts that our country today has such a significant position on the world map.
Oleg (879-912)
Rurik had a son, Igor, but by the time of his father’s death he was too young, and therefore his uncle, Oleg, became the Grand Duke. He glorified his name with his militancy and the success that accompanied him on the military path. Particularly remarkable was his campaign against Constantinople, which opened up incredible prospects for the Slavs from the emerging opportunities for trade with distant eastern countries. His contemporaries respected him so much that they nicknamed him “the prophetic Oleg.”
Of course, the first rulers of Rus' were such legendary figures that we will most likely never know about their real exploits, but Oleg was probably truly an outstanding personality.
Igor (912-945)
Igor, the son of Rurik, following the example of Oleg, also went on campaigns several times, annexed a lot of lands, but he was not such a successful warrior, and his campaign against Greece turned out to be disastrous. He was cruel, often “rip off” the defeated tribes to the last, for which he later paid. Igor was warned that the Drevlyans had not forgiven him; they advised him to take a large squad to Polyudye. He did not listen and was killed. In general, the TV series “Rulers of Rus'” once talked about this.
Olga (945-957)
However, the Drevlyans soon regretted their action. Igor’s wife, Olga, first dealt with their two conciliatory embassies, and then burned the main city of the Drevlyans, Korosten. Contemporaries testify that she was distinguished by a rare intelligence and strong-willed rigidity. During her reign, she did not lose a single inch of land that was conquered by her husband and his ancestors. It is known that in her declining years she converted to Christianity.
Svyatoslav (957-972)
Svyatoslav took after his ancestor, Oleg. He was also distinguished by his courage, determination, and directness. He was an excellent warrior, tamed and conquered many Slavic tribes, and often beat the Pechenegs, for which they hated him. Like other rulers of Rus', he preferred (if possible) to reach an “amicable” agreement. If the tribes agreed to recognize the supremacy of Kyiv and paid off with tribute, then even their rulers remained the same.
He annexed the hitherto invincible Vyatichi (who preferred to fight in their impenetrable forests), beat the Khazars, and then took Tmutarakan. Despite the small number of his squad, he successfully fought with the Bulgarians on the Danube. Conquered Andrianople and threatened to take Constantinople. The Greeks preferred to pay off with a rich tribute. On the way back, he died along with his squad on the rapids of the Dnieper, being killed by the same Pechenegs. It is assumed that it was his squad that found the swords and remains of equipment during the construction of the Dnieper Hydroelectric Station.
General characteristics of the 1st century
Since the first rulers of Rus' reigned on the Grand Duke's throne, the era of constant unrest and civil strife gradually began to end. Relative order arose: the princely squad defended the borders from the arrogant and ferocious nomadic tribes, and they, in turn, pledged to help with warriors and paid tribute to polyudye. The main concern of those princes was the Khazars: at that time they were paid tribute (not regularly, during the next raid) by many Slavic tribes, which greatly undermined the authority of the central government.
Another problem was the lack of unity of faith. The Slavs who conquered Constantinople were looked upon with contempt, since at that time monotheism (Judaism, Christianity) was already being actively established, and the pagans were considered almost animals. But the tribes actively resisted all attempts to interfere with their faith. "Rulers of Rus'" talks about this - the film quite truthfully conveys the reality of that era.
This contributed to the increase in the number of minor troubles within young state. But Olga, who converted to Christianity and began to promote and condone the construction of Christian churches in Kyiv, paved the way for the baptism of the country. The second century began, in which the rulers of Ancient Rus' accomplished many more great things.
Vladimir St. Equal to the Apostles (980-1015)
As is known, there was never brotherly love between Yaropolk, Oleg and Vladimir, who were the heirs of Svyatoslav. It didn’t even help that during his lifetime the father allocated his own land for each of them. It ended with Vladimir destroying his brothers and beginning to rule alone.
The ruler in Ancient Rus', recaptured Red Rus' from the regiments, fought a lot and bravely against the Pechenegs and Bulgarians. He became famous as a generous ruler who did not spare gold to give gifts to people loyal to him. First, he demolished almost all the Christian temples and churches that were built under his mother, and the small Christian community suffered constant persecution from him.
But the political situation was such that the country had to be brought to monotheism. In addition, contemporaries talk about strong feeling, which broke out among the prince towards the Byzantine princess Anna. No one would give her for a pagan. So the rulers of Ancient Rus' came to the conclusion about the need to be baptized.
Therefore, already in 988, the baptism of the prince and all his associates took place, and then the new religion began to spread among the people. Vasily and Konstantin married Anna to Prince Vladimir. Contemporaries spoke of Vladimir as a strict, tough (sometimes even cruel) person, but they loved him for his straightforwardness, honesty and justice. The church still extols the name of the prince for the reason that he began to massively build temples and churches in the country. This was the first ruler of Rus' to be baptized.
Svyatopolk (1015-1019)
Like his father, Vladimir during his lifetime distributed lands to his many sons: Svyatopolk, Izyaslav, Yaroslav, Mstislav, Svyatoslav, Boris and Gleb. After his father died, Svyatopolk decided to rule on his own, for which he issued an order to eliminate his own brothers, but was expelled from Kyiv by Yaroslav of Novgorod.
With the help of the Polish king Boleslav the Brave, he was able to take possession of Kiev for the second time, but the people received him coolly. He was soon forced to flee the city, and then died on the way. His death is a dark story. It is assumed that he took his own life. In folk legends he is nicknamed "the cursed one."
Yaroslav the Wise (1019-1054)
Yaroslav quickly became an independent ruler of Kievan Rus. He was distinguished by his great intelligence and did a lot for the development of the state. He built many monasteries and promoted the spread of writing. He is also the author of "Russian Truth", the first official collection of laws and regulations in our country. Like his ancestors, he immediately distributed plots of land to his sons, but at the same time strictly ordered them to “live in peace and not cause intrigues to each other.”
Izyaslav (1054-1078)
Izyaslav was the eldest son of Yaroslav. Initially he ruled Kiev, distinguished himself as a good ruler, but he did not know how to get along with the people very well. The latter played a role. When he went against the Polovtsians and failed in that campaign, the Kievans simply kicked him out, calling his brother, Svyatoslav, to reign. After he died, Izyaslav returned to the capital city again.
In principle, he was a very good ruler, but he had some rather difficult times. Like all the first rulers of Kievan Rus, he was forced to solve a lot of difficult issues.
General characteristics of the 2nd century
In those centuries, several practically independent (the most powerful) stood out from the structure of Rus': Chernigov, Rostov-Suzdal (later Vladimir-Suzdal), Galicia-Volyn. Novgorod stood apart. Ruled by the Veche following the example of the Greek city-states, he generally did not look at the princes very well.
Despite this fragmentation, formally Rus' was still considered an independent state. Yaroslav was able to expand its borders to the very river Ros. Under Vladimir, the country adopted Christianity, and the influence of Byzantium on its internal affairs increased.
Thus, at the head of the newly created church stood the metropolitan, who was directly subordinate to Constantinople. The new faith brought with it not only religion, but also new writing and new laws. The princes at that time acted together with the church, built many new churches, and contributed to the education of their people. It was at this time that the famous Nestor lived, who is the author of numerous written monuments of that time.
Unfortunately, everything was not so smooth. The eternal problem was both the constant raids of nomads and internal strife, which constantly tore the country apart and deprived it of strength. As Nestor, the author of “The Tale of Igor’s Campaign,” put it, “the Russian land is groaning from them.” The enlightenment ideas of the Church are beginning to appear, but so far the people are not accepting the new religion well.
Thus began the third century.
Vsevolod I (1078-1093)
Vsevolod the First could well remain in history as an exemplary ruler. He was truthful, honest, promoted education and the development of writing, and he himself knew five languages. But he was not distinguished by developed military and political talent. The constant raids of the Polovtsians, pestilence, drought and famine did not contribute to his authority. Only his son Vladimir, later nicknamed Monomakh, kept his father on the throne (a unique case, by the way).
Svyatopolk II (1093-1113)
He was the son of Izyaslav, had a good character, but was unusually weak-willed in some matters, which is why the appanage princes did not consider him a Grand Duke. However, he ruled very well: having heeded the advice of the same Vladimir Monomakh, at the Dolob Congress in 1103 he persuaded his opponents to undertake a joint campaign against the “cursed” Polovtsians, after which in 1111 they were completely defeated.
The military booty was enormous. Almost two dozen Polotsk residents were killed in that battle. This victory resounded loudly throughout all Slavic lands, both in the East and in the West.
Vladimir Monomakh (1113-1125)
Despite the fact that, based on seniority, he should not have taken the Kiev throne, it was Vladimir who was elected there by unanimous decision. Such love is explained by the rare political and military talent of the prince. He was distinguished by his intelligence, political and military courage, and was very courageous in military affairs.
He considered every campaign against the Polovtsians a holiday (the Polovtsians did not share his views). It was under Monomakh that the princes who were overly zealous in matters of independence received a strict cut. He leaves to descendants “Lessons for Children,” where he talks about the importance of honest and selfless service to one’s Motherland.
Mstislav I (1125-1132)
Following the behests of his father, he lived in peace with his brothers and other princes, but became enraged at the mere hint of disobedience and desire for civil strife. Thus, he angrily expels the Polovtsian princes from the country, after which they are forced to flee the discontent of the ruler in Byzantium. In general, many rulers of Kievan Rus tried not to kill their enemies unnecessarily.
Yaropolk (1132-1139)
Known for his skillful political intrigues, which ultimately turned out badly for the Monomakhovichs. At the end of his reign, he decides to transfer the throne not to his brother, but to his nephew. Things almost reach the point of unrest, but the descendants of Oleg Svyatoslavovich, the “Olegovichs,” still ascend to the throne. Not for long, however.
Vsevolod II (1139-1146)
Vsevolod was distinguished by good makings of a ruler; he ruled wisely and firmly. But he wanted to transfer the throne to Igor Olegovich, securing the position of the “Olegovichs”. But the people of Kiev did not recognize Igor, he was forced to take monastic vows, and then was completely killed.
Izyaslav II (1146-1154)
But the residents of Kyiv enthusiastically received Izyaslav II Mstislavovich, who, with his brilliant political abilities, military valor and intelligence, vividly reminded them of his grandfather, Monomakh. It was he who introduced the rule that has remained indisputable since then: if an uncle in one princely family is alive, then the nephew cannot receive his throne.
Was in a terrible feud with Yuri Vladimirovich, Prince Rostov-Suzdal land. His name will mean nothing to many, but later Yuri will be called Dolgoruky. Izyaslav twice had to flee Kyiv, but until his death he never gave up the throne.
Yuri Dolgoruky (1154-1157)
Yuri finally gains access to the Kyiv throne. Having stayed there for only three years, he achieved a lot: he was able to pacify (or punish) the princes, and contributed to the unification of fragmented lands under strong rule. However, all his work turned out to be meaningless, since after the death of Dolgoruky, the squabble between the princes flared up with renewed vigor.
Mstislav II (1157-1169)
It was the devastation and quarrels that led to Mstislav II Izyaslavovich ascending the throne. He was a good ruler, but did not have a very good disposition, and also condoned princely feuds (“divide and conquer”). Andrei Yuryevich, the son of Dolgoruky, drives him out of Kyiv. Known in history under the nickname Bogolyubsky.
In 1169, Andrei did not limit himself to expelling his father’s worst enemy, simultaneously burning Kyiv to the ground. Thus, at the same time, he took revenge on the people of Kiev, who by that time had acquired the habit of expelling princes at any time, calling to their principality anyone who would promise them “bread and circuses.”
Andrey Bogolyubsky (1169-1174)
As soon as Andrei seized power, he immediately moved the capital to his favorite city, Vladimir on the Klyazma. Since then, the dominant position of Kyiv immediately began to weaken. Having become stern and domineering towards the end of his life, Bogolyubsky did not want to put up with the tyranny of many boyars, wanting to establish an autocratic government. Many did not like this, and therefore Andrei was killed as a result of a conspiracy.
So what did the first rulers of Rus' do? The table will give a general answer to this question.
In principle, all the rulers of Rus' from Rurik to Putin did the same thing. The table can hardly convey all the hardships that our people endured on the difficult path of state formation.
Who were the princes of Ancient Rus'?
In the ninth century in the territory of Eastern Europe the powerful state of Kievan Rus was created - a significant political and military force until the Mongol invasion in the thirteenth century. The rulers of Ancient Rus' were princes, and they soon began to call themselves grand princes.
Grand Duke is a title that was borne by monarchs, rulers of the Old Russian state, and then of Kievan Rus.
The prince combined the following functions as head of state:
– judicial (he held court over the population, over his subordinates);
– military (the prince had to vigilantly defend the borders of his state, organize defense, gather troops and, of course, prepare for an attack when necessary; the Russian people especially appreciated the military courage of the princes);
– religious (in the pagan era of Rus', Grand Duke was the organizer of sacrifices in favor of the pagan gods);
At first, the princely power was elective, but gradually began to gain hereditary status.
The Grand Duke was the main figure in the state; the appanage Russian princes were subordinate to him. The Grand Duke had the right to collect tribute from the princes subordinate to him.
The first prince of Ancient Rus'
Rurik is considered to be the first prince of Ancient Rus', who laid the foundation for the Rurik dynasty. By origin, Rurik was a Varangian, therefore, he could be a Norman or a Swede.
There is no information about the exact origin of the first Russian prince, just as there is little information about his activities. As the chronicles say, he became the sole ruler of Novgorod and Kyiv, then created a united Rus'.
Chronicles say that he had only one son, who was named Igor, who later became the Grand Duke. Rurik had several wives, but Igor himself was born to the Norwegian princess Efanda.
Russian princes of Ancient Rus'
Oleg
After the death of the first Russian prince Rurik, his close relative Oleg, called the Prophet, began to rule. Rurik's son Igor was not old enough to rule the state at the time of his father's death. Therefore, Oleg was the ruler and guardian of Igor until he came of age.Chronicles say that Oleg was a brave warrior and took part in many campaigns. After the death of Rurik, he went to Kyiv, where the brothers Askold and Dir had already established their power. Oleg managed to kill both brothers and take the Kiev throne. At the same time, Oleg called Kyiv “the mother of Russian cities.” It was he who made Kyiv the capital of Ancient Rus'.
Oleg became famous for his successful campaigns against Byzantium, where he won rich booty. He plundered Byzantine cities, and also concluded a trade agreement with Byzantium that was beneficial for Kievan Rus.
Oleg's death is still a mystery to historians. Chronicles claim that the prince was bitten by a snake that crawled out of the skull of his horse. Although most likely this may be nothing more than a legend.
Igor
After Oleg’s sudden death, Rurik’s son, Igor, began to rule the country. Igor took as his wife the legendary Princess Olga, whom he brought from Pskov. She was twelve years old younger Igor When they got engaged, Igor was 25 years old, she was only 13.
Like Oleg, Igor pursued an active foreign policy; it was aimed at conquering nearby lands. Already in 914, after two years of his establishment on the throne, Igor subjugated the Drevlyans and imposed tribute on them. In 920, he first attacked the Pecheneg tribes. The next thing mentioned in the chronicles was his campaign against Constantinople in 941-944, which was crowned with success.
After the campaign against Byzantium, in 945, Prince Igor was killed by the Drevlyans while collecting tribute.
After his death, his wife Princess Olga began to rule. Igor left behind his young son Svyatoslav.
Svyatoslav
Until Igor’s son Svyatoslav came of age, Kievan Rus was ruled by his mother, Princess Olga, who was the regent. Svyatoslav began to rule independently only in 964.
Svyatoslav, unlike his mother, remained a pagan and was against conversion to Christianity.
Svyatoslav became famous primarily as a successful commander. Having ascended the throne, the prince immediately set off on a campaign against Khazar Khaganate in 965. In the same year, he managed to completely conquer it and annex it to the territory of Ancient Rus'. He then defeated the Vyatichi and imposed tribute on them in 966.
The prince also waged an active struggle against the Bulgarian kingdom and Byzantium, where he was successful. After returning from Byzantine campaign In 972, Prince Svyatoslav was ambushed by the Pechenegs on the rapids of the Dnieper. In this unequal battle he met his death.
Yaropolk
After the murder of Svyatoslav, his son Yaropolk began to rule. It should be said that Yaropolk ruled only in Kyiv, his brothers ruled Novgorod and the Drevlyans. Yaropolk began a war for power and defeated his brother Oleg in 977. The very next year he was killed by his brother Vladimir.
Yaropolk was not remembered as great commander, but had some success in politics. Thus, under him, negotiations were conducted with Emperor Otto II. Chronicles indicate that ambassadors from the Pope came to his court. Yaropolk was an obvious admirer of the Christian church, but he did not manage to make this religion a state religion.
Ancient Rus': Prince Vladimir
Vladimir was the son of Svyatoslav and seized power in Rus' by killing his brother Yaropolk in 978, becoming the sole prince of Ancient Rus'.
Vladimir became famous primarily for making Rus' a Christian state in 988. However, Vladimir is also known as an excellent commander.
Already in 981-982. Vladimir went on a campaign against the Vyatichi, already subject to tribute, and seized their land, making it Russian. In 983, he opened the way to the Baltic for Rus', conquering the Yatvingian tribe. Later he managed to conquer the Radimichi and, for the first time, the White Croats, and he annexed their lands to Rus'.
In addition to military successes, Vladimir managed to conclude profitable agreements with many European states (Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Byzantium and the Papal States).
Under him, coinage began to be minted, which strengthened the Russian economy. These were the first coins issued on the territory of Kievan Rus. The reason for minting the coin was the desire to prove the sovereignty of the young Christian state. There were no economic reasons; Rus' got along just fine with Byzantine coins.
Prince Vladimir the Great died in 1015. After his death, the throne was seized by his son Svyatopolk, but he was soon overthrown by Yaroslav the Wise.
Rurik(?-879) - the founder of the Rurik dynasty, the first Russian prince. Chronicle sources claim that Rurik was called from the Varangian lands by Novgorod citizens to reign together with his brothers Sineus and Truvor in 862. After the death of the brothers, he ruled all the Novgorod lands. Before his death, he transferred power to his relative, Oleg.
Oleg(?-912) - the second ruler of Rus'. He reigned from 879 to 912, first in Novgorod, and then in Kyiv. He is the founder of a single ancient Russian power, created by him in 882 with the capture of Kyiv and the subjugation of Smolensk, Lyubech and other cities. After moving the capital to Kyiv, he also subjugated the Drevlyans, Northerners, and Radimichi. One of the first Russian princes undertook a successful campaign against Constantinople and concluded the first trade agreement with Byzantium. He enjoyed great respect and authority among his subjects, who began to call him “prophetic,” that is, wise.
Igor(?-945) - third Russian prince (912-945), son of Rurik. The main focus of his activities was protecting the country from Pecheneg raids and preserving the unity of the state. He undertook numerous campaigns to expand the possessions of the Kyiv state, in particular against the Uglich people. He continued his campaigns against Byzantium. During one of them (941) he failed, during the other (944) he received a ransom from Byzantium and concluded a peace treaty that consolidated the military-political victories of Rus'. Undertook the first successful campaigns of the Russians into the North Caucasus (Khazaria) and Transcaucasia. In 945 he tried to collect tribute from the Drevlyans twice (the procedure for collecting it was not legally established), for which he was killed by them.
Olga(c. 890-969) - wife of Prince Igor, the first female ruler of the Russian state (regent for her son Svyatoslav). Established in 945-946. the first legislative procedure for collecting tribute from the population of the Kyiv state. In 955 (according to other sources, 957) she made a trip to Constantinople, where she secretly converted to Christianity under the name of Helen. In 959, the first of the Russian rulers sent an embassy to Western Europe, to Emperor Otto I. His response was to send it in 961-962. with missionary purposes to Kyiv, Archbishop Adalbert, who tried to bring Western Christianity to Rus'. However, Svyatoslav and his entourage refused Christianization and Olga was forced to transfer power to her son. IN last years life from political activity was actually removed. Nevertheless, she retained significant influence on her grandson, the future Prince Vladimir the Saint, whom she was able to convince of the need to accept Christianity.
Svyatoslav(?-972) - son of Prince Igor and Princess Olga. Ruler of the Old Russian state in 962-972. He was distinguished by his warlike character. He was the initiator and leader of many aggressive campaigns: against the Oka Vyatichi (964-966), the Khazars (964-965), North Caucasus(965), Danube Bulgaria (968, 969-971), Byzantium (971). He also fought against the Pechenegs (968-969, 972). Under him, Rus' turned into the largest power on the Black Sea. Neither the Byzantine rulers nor the Pechenegs, who agreed on joint actions against Svyatoslav, could come to terms with this. During his return from Bulgaria in 972, his army, bloodless in the war with Byzantium, was attacked on the Dnieper by the Pechenegs. Svyatoslav was killed.
Vladimir I Saint(?-1015) - the youngest son of Svyatoslav, who defeated his brothers Yaropolk and Oleg in an internecine struggle after the death of his father. Prince of Novgorod (from 969) and Kiev (from 980). He conquered the Vyatichi, Radimichi and Yatvingians. He continued his father's fight against the Pechenegs. Volga Bulgaria, Poland, Byzantium. Under him, defensive lines were built along the rivers Desna, Osetr, Trubezh, Sula, etc. Kyiv was re-fortified and built up with stone buildings for the first time. In 988-990 introduced Eastern Christianity as the state religion. Under Vladimir I Old Russian state entered a period of prosperity and power. The international authority of the new Christian power grew. Vladimir was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church and is referred to as a Saint. In Russian folklore it is called Vladimir the Red Sun. Was married to Byzantine princess Anna.
Svyatoslav II Yaroslavich(1027-1076) - son of Yaroslav the Wise, Prince of Chernigov (from 1054), Grand Duke of Kiev (from 1073). Together with his brother Vsevolod, he defended the southern borders of the country from the Polovtsians. In the year of his death, he adopted a new set of laws - “Izbornik”.
Vsevolod I Yaroslavich(1030-1093) - Prince of Pereyaslavl (from 1054), Chernigov (from 1077), Grand Duke of Kiev (from 1078). Together with the brothers Izyaslav and Svyatoslav, he fought against the Polovtsians and took part in the compilation of the Yaroslavich Truth.
Svyatopolk II Izyaslavich(1050-1113) - grandson of Yaroslav the Wise. Prince of Polotsk (1069-1071), Novgorod (1078-1088), Turov (1088-1093), Grand Duke of Kiev (1093-1113). He was distinguished by hypocrisy and cruelty both towards his subjects and his close circle.
Vladimir II Vsevolodovich Monomakh(1053-1125) - Prince of Smolensk (from 1067), Chernigov (from 1078), Pereyaslavl (from 1093), Grand Duke of Kiev (1113-1125). . Son of Vsevolod I and daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine Monomakh. He was called to reign in Kyiv during popular uprising 1113, which followed the death of Svyatopolk P. He took measures to limit the arbitrariness of moneylenders and the administrative apparatus. He managed to achieve the relative unity of Rus' and an end to strife. He supplemented the codes of laws that existed before him with new articles. He left a “Teaching” to his children, in which he called for strengthening the unity of the Russian state, living in peace and harmony, and avoiding blood feud
Mstislav I Vladimirovich(1076-1132) - son of Vladimir Monomakh. Grand Duke of Kiev (1125-1132). From 1088 he ruled in Novgorod, Rostov, Smolensk, etc. He took part in the work of the Lyubech, Vitichev and Dolob congresses of Russian princes. He took part in campaigns against the Polovtsians. He led the defense of Rus' from its western neighbors.
Vsevolod P Olgovich(?-1146) - Prince of Chernigov (1127-1139). Grand Duke of Kiev (1139-1146).
Izyaslav II Mstislavich(c. 1097-1154) - Prince of Vladimir-Volyn (from 1134), Pereyaslavl (from 1143), Grand Duke of Kiev (from 1146). Grandson of Vladimir Monomakh. Participant in feudal strife. Supporter of the independence of the Russian Orthodox Church from the Byzantine Patriarchate.
Yuri Vladimirovich Dolgoruky (90s of the 11th century - 1157) - Prince of Suzdal and Grand Duke of Kiev. Son of Vladimir Monomakh. In 1125 he moved the capital of the Rostov-Suzdal principality from Rostov to Suzdal. Since the beginning of the 30s. fought for southern Pereyaslavl and Kyiv. Considered the founder of Moscow (1147). In 1155 captured Kyiv for the second time. Poisoned by the Kyiv boyars.
Andrey Yurievich Bogolyubsky (ca. 1111-1174) - son of Yuri Dolgoruky. Prince of Vladimir-Suzdal (from 1157). He moved the capital of the principality to Vladimir. In 1169 he conquered Kyiv. Killed by boyars at his residence in the village of Bogolyubovo.
Vsevolod III Yurievich Big Nest (1154-1212) - son of Yuri Dolgoruky. Grand Duke of Vladimir (from 1176). He severely suppressed the boyar opposition that participated in the conspiracy against Andrei Bogolyubsky. Subjugated Kyiv, Chernigov, Ryazan, Novgorod. During his reign, Vladimir-Suzdal Rus' reached its heyday. Got his nickname for a large number of children (12 people).
Roman Mstislavich(?-1205) - Prince of Novgorod (1168-1169), Vladimir-Volyn (from 1170), Galician (from 1199). Son of Mstislav Izyaslavich. He strengthened the princely power in Galich and Volyn, and was considered the most powerful ruler of Rus'. Killed in the war with Poland.
Yuri Vsevolodovich(1188-1238) - Grand Duke of Vladimir (1212-1216 and 1218-1238). During the internecine struggle for the Vladimir throne, he was defeated in the Battle of Lipitsa in 1216. and ceded the great reign to his brother Constantine. In 1221 he founded the city of Nizhny Novgorod. He died during the battle with the Mongol-Tatars on the river. City in 1238
Daniil Romanovich(1201-1264) - Prince of Galicia (1211-1212 and from 1238) and Volyn (from 1221), son of Roman Mstislavich. United the Galician and Volyn lands. He encouraged the construction of cities (Kholm, Lviv, etc.), crafts and trade. In 1254 he received the title of king from the Pope.
Yaroslav III Vsevolodovich(1191-1246) - son of Vsevolod the Big Nest. He reigned in Pereyaslavl, Galich, Ryazan, Novgorod. In 1236-1238 reigned in Kyiv. Since 1238 - Grand Duke of Vladimir. Traveled twice to the Golden Horde and to Mongolia.
History of Ancient Rus'. She's so interesting. After all, in those distant times everything was just beginning. The state of Rus' was created, the first princes began to rule, a system of law and taxes was formed, the first international treaties were signed. Therefore, many questions always arise about this period - the period of Ancient Rus'.
Who was the first prince in Rus'? According to the “Norman” theory - Rurik, who became the founder of the first dynasty of rulers of Rus' - the Rurikids, and according to the “anti-Norman” theory - Oleg. Therefore, they are considered the first princes. But not everything is so simple in the history of Ancient Rus'. Rurik had a son - Igor. However, after the death of his father, he was still too young to rule Russia. His time will yet come. In the meantime, Oleg, one of Rurik’s warriors, becomes prince.
Who was the first prince of Moscow? He became Daniil Alexandrovich, the son of Alexander Nevsky. He laid the foundation for the Moscow dynasty. And this happened much later than the founding of Moscow by Yu. Dolgoruky in 1147. Only during the reign of Nevsky did the Moscow principality become a separate inheritance.
Thus, although the word “first” presupposes one person, it so happens that everyone - Rurik, Oleg, Igor and Daniil - can rightfully be called the first.
What were they like, these princes, how did their reign go down in the history of great Russia?
Rurik (862-879)
In 862, the Ilmen tribes invited the Varangian princes to rule - there were many strife between the Russians, they could not restore order on their land.
It was Rurik and his brothers. Rurik, as a strong, powerful personality, began to rule in Ladoga - the center of the Ilmen tribes, and then in Novgorod. And the subsequent princes, and then the kings, began to be called Rurikovich. We know little about his reign; scant information is given about him in Nestor’s “Tale of Bygone Years.” But it is Rurik who is depicted as the central figure on the monument “Millennium of Rus'” by M. Mikeshin in Novgorod. This is to give the memory of the grateful descendants of the first prince of Rus'.
Oleg (979-912)
Who was the first Russian prince in Rus'? The answer to this question is that Oleg. He freed the tribes from tribute to the Khazars, and built so many cities that foreign travelers began to call Rus' “Gardarika,” a country of cities. He named Kyiv the capital of Rus', signed the first trade agreement with Byzantium, Rus' under Oleg became a strong state. It was Oleg who first used a psychological attack against the enemy. During the capture of Constantinople, the capital of Byzantium, Oleg ordered the boats to be put on wheels. You can imagine how frightened the Greeks were when they saw the boats racing across the sand! Yes, Oleg was smart, brave, courageous - truly Prophetic.
Igor (912-945)
Igor's reign was less colorful than that of his predecessor Oleg. And he came to power already in mature age It is no coincidence that people called him Igor the Old. And he was too greedy; during polyudye, that is, collecting tribute, Igor often increased the size of this tribute too much, and sometimes even went to the tribe a second time to collect it. Igor paid for this - the Drevlyan tribe killed Igor and his warriors during the secondary collection of taxes. Trade agreements with Byzantium were also not very beneficial to Rus'.
Daniil Alexandrovich - first Moscow prince (1261-1303)
Daniil Alexandrovich was a cautious, cunning and thrifty prince. His smart and thoughtful policy led to the fact that the Moscow principality almost doubled in size, became stronger and more powerful. He managed to loudly declare the special position of the principality, claiming dominance. The prince was canonized by the church, and one of the first monasteries in Moscow, which he once founded - in Danilov, is now the residence of the Patriarch of All Rus'.
Country and population ancient Rus' before the start of the state
On the vast Eastern European plain, irrigated by great rivers, people have long lived Slavic peoples, our ancestors. It is unknown when they came here. They settled around different places this huge but deserted country, and mainly due to the great waterway: From the Varangian Sea (Baltic), Lake Nevo (Ladoga), Volkhov River, Lake Ilmeni, Lovat River, Dnieper River to the Russian Sea (Black). For the most part, the Slavs took their name from the place of settlement: They built Novgorod; along the Dnieper lived the glades, who had their own city of Kyiv; those who settled in the forests, not far from the clearings, were called Drevlyans; many other Slavic tribes with different names settled near Russian rivers and lakes. But the Slavs were not the only ones who lived in what is now Russia. Foreign peoples also lived here: To the north and northeast - the Finnish tribes (Chud, Ves, Merya, Muroma, Cheremis, Mordovians, etc.), to the west - Lithuania, to the south and southeast - the Turks (Khozars, Pechenegs, Cumans). The Slavs were mostly engaged in agriculture. They were ruled by their ancestors, but there was no peace between the tribes, and besides, they were offended by their neighbors. Then they themselves sent ambassadors across the Baltic sea to one of the Varangian tribes, which was called Russia (from which we all began to be called Russians), saying: “Our whole land is great and abundant, but there is no order (i.e., order) in it.” , come to reign and rule us, “three princes (brothers Rurik, Sineus, Truvor) from this tribe came with their squads, among whom there were many Slavs, and took places in Novgorod, Beloozero and Izborsk. This happened in 862. This year begins the hard work of the Russian people on the structure of their state.
Rurik (862-879)
Rurik's brothers died two years later, Rurik became the sole ruler of the country. He handed over the surrounding towns and villages to his confidants, who themselves carried out justice and reprisals. At the same time, two brothers, not from the clan of Rurik, Askold and Dir, occupied Kyiv and began to rule the glades.
Oleg (879-912)
After the death of Rurik, due to the minority of his son Igor, Oleg began to rule. He glorified himself with intelligence and belligerence, with a large army he went down the Dnieper, took Smolensk, Lyubech, Kyiv and made the latter his capital city. Askold and Dir were killed, and Oleg showed little Igor to the glades: “Here is the son of Rurik - your prince.” Oleg’s campaign against Greece is remarkable, which ended in Oleg’s complete victory and provided the Russians with preferential free trade rights in Constantinople. Oleg brought a lot of gold, expensive fabrics, wine and all kinds of wealth with him from the campaign. Rus' marveled at his exploits and nicknamed him “the prophetic Oleg.”
Igor (912-945)
Igor Rurikovich, following the example of Oleg, conquered neighboring tribes, forced them to pay tribute, repelled the attack of the Pechenegs and undertook a campaign in Greece, but not as successful as Oleg’s campaign. Igor was immoderate in his demands on the defeated tribes. The Drevlyans said: “If a wolf gets into the habit of attacking the sheep, he will carry out the whole flock. We will kill him.” And they killed Igor and his squad that was with him...”
Olga (945-957)
Olga, Igor's wife, according to the custom of that time, cruelly took revenge on the Drevlyans for the death of her husband and took their main city of Korosten. She was distinguished by a rare intelligence and great abilities for government. In her declining years she accepted Christianity and was canonized. The Christianity adopted by Olga was the first ray of true light, which was destined to warm the hearts of the Russian people.
general characteristics 1st century
Order in the Russian state begins with the calling of princes. The Grand Duke sits in Kyiv: He holds court here, goes for tribute (cart, polyudye). He appoints posadniks to the subordinate areas, with the right to have his own squad and collect tribute in his favor. The main concern of the first princes was the fight against restless nomads: At that time, the entire south was occupied by the Pechenegs, the Slavs paid tribute to the Khazars. To give scope and freedom to Russian trade, Russian princes undertake campaigns in Byzantium (Constantinople). The religion of the Russian Slavs was at first pagan: They worshiped thunder and lightning (Perun), the sun under different names, fire, wind, etc. But military and trade relations with Byzantium introduced the Russians to Christianity. So, there are instructions about the baptism of Askold. Under Igor, she was already in Kyiv Christian church, Princess Olga was baptized in Constantinople (Constantinople). But, despite the concerns and activities of the rulers of the princes, in the general flow of the Russian people, disorder occurs, due to the need to fight neighboring tribes (self-defense) and the instability of order within the country.
2nd century, list of events
Vladimir St. Equal to the Apostles (980-1015)
The internecine wars of Yaropolk, Oleg and Vladimir, the sons of Svyatoslav, who distributed his lands to them during his lifetime, ended with the death of Yaropolk and Oleg and the triumph of Vladimir. Vladimir took Red Rus' from the Poles and fought against the Bulgarians and Pechenegs. He did not spare his rich booty for his squad and for decorating numerous idols. Christianity, adopted by Olga, had already managed to penetrate into Kyiv, where a church of St. Ilya. Greek preachers managed to persuade the prince himself to accept Christianity. The baptism of Vladimir and his entourage, and then all the people of Kiev, took place in 988. The Greek emperors, Vasily and Constantine, married their sister Anna to Vladimir. Christianity was actively spread by the princely squad and priests in all areas of the principality. The people loved Vladimir for his gentle disposition and rare love for his neighbors. Vladimir built cities and churches, and schools at the churches for teaching literacy. It was under him that the construction of a monastery in Rus' began. IN folk songs and in the past (epics) the affectionate prince, Vladimir the Red Sun, is often mentioned; the Russian Church calls him the Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince.
Svyatopolk (1015-1019)
During his lifetime, Saint Vladimir divided the lands to his sons: Svyatopolk, Izyaslav, Yaroslav, Mstislav, Svyatoslav, Boris and Gleb. After the death of Vladimir, Svyatopolk took possession of Kiev and decided to get rid of all his brothers, for which he ordered the murder of Boris, Gleb and Svyatoslav, but was soon expelled from Kiev by Yaroslav of Novgorod. With the help of his father-in-law, the Polish king Boleslav the Brave, Svyatopolk captured Kiev for the second time, but had to flee from there again and took his own life along the way. In folk songs, as the killer of his brothers, he is nicknamed “the accursed one.”
Yaroslav the Wise (1019-1054)
After the expulsion of the Holy Regiment and with the death of Mstislav of Tmutarakan, Prince Yaroslav became the sole ruler of the Russian land. Distinguished by his great intelligence, he skillfully ruled Russia: He took great care of the needs of the country, built cities (Yaroslav and Yuriev), erected churches (St. Sophia in Kiev and Novgorod), established schools and promoted writing in Rus'. He is also responsible for publishing the first set of legal customs, known as “Russian truth”. To his sons: Izyaslav, Svyatoslav, Vsevolod, Igor, Vyacheslav, he gave the inheritance of the Russian land and advised them to live peacefully, amicably and in love among themselves, the people nicknamed Yaroslav “wise”.
Izyaslav (1054-1078)
Yaroslav's eldest son, Izyaslav I, after the death of his father took the Kiev throne, but after an unsuccessful campaign against the Polovtsians, the Kievans drove him out, and his brother Svyatoslav became the Grand Duke. After the death of the latter, Izyaslav returned to Kyiv again.
Svyatoslav (957-972)
The son of Igor and Olga, Svyatoslav, tempered himself in campaigns and wars and was distinguished by his stern character, honesty and directness. He went to the enemies with a warning: “I’m coming against you.” Svyatoslav annexed the Vyatichi, defeated the Khazars, took the Tmutarakan region and, despite the small squad, successfully fought on the Danube with the Bulgarians. After that, Svyatoslav went against the Greeks - he conquered Andrianople, among other things, and threatened Constantinople, but the Greeks agreed to peace. “Don’t go to the city,” they said, “take whatever tribute you want.” On the way back, Svyatoslav did not take precautions and was killed by the Pechenegs at the rapids of the Dnieper.
General characteristics of the 2nd century
The brothers of the Grand Duke receive control over separate parts (allotments) of the state, of which the most significant are: Principality of Kiev(the largest and strongest), Chernigov, Rostov-Suzdal, Galician-Volyn, Novgorod. Despite this division, the Russian land is still considered united. Yaroslav the Wise expands its borders to the Rosi River (a tributary of the Dnieper). Under Saint Vladimir, Christianity spread in Rus', and with it enlightenment with a strong Byzantine influence. The Kiev Metropolitan, subordinate to the Patriarch of Constantinople, becomes the head of the Russian Church. Representatives of the church, mostly Greeks, brought with them not only a new religion, but also new state concepts(about the rights and duties of the prince and subjects) and new enlightenment. The princes acted in accordance with the church. They built temples, encouraged monasteries, and started schools. Of the monasteries, the most famous is Kiev-Pechersk, founded by St. Anthony and built by St. Theodosius. At this time, the ancient Russian historian, who recorded events year by year, appeared, the chronicler monk Nestor and many other ancient Russian writers of that time, mainly preachers. There were no printed books yet, but everything was rewritten, and the rewriting itself was considered pleasing to God. Thus, the general way of life is established under Byzantine influence, although people's life is distracted from the direct path by the constant struggle between rulers and princes and the need to protect their native land from the attacks of neighbors. The most important features of this century: The beginning of the development of writing, but at the same time the struggle of the princes, the struggle with neighboring tribes, from which, in the words of “the words of Igor’s campaign,” “the Russian land will collapse.” Also an important feature was the beginning of the development of the idea of love and peace, the idea of Christianity, the beginning of educational ideas under the auspices of the church.
3rd century, list of events
Vsevolod - I (1078-1093)
Vsevolod I could be a useful ruler. This prince was pious, truthful, loved education very much and knew five languages, but the Polovtsian raids, famine, pestilence and turmoil in the country did not favor his principality. He held onto the throne only thanks to his son Vladimir, nicknamed Monomakh.
Svyatopolk - II (1093-1113)
The son of Izyaslav -I, Svyatopolk -II, who inherited the Kiev throne after Vsevolod -I, was characterized by spinelessness and was not able to pacify the civil strife of the princes over the possession of cities. At the congress in Lyubich Pereslavl in 1097, the princes kissed the cross “for each to own his father’s land,” but soon Prince David Igorevich blinded Prince Vasilko. The princes gathered again for a congress in the year 1100, and deprived David of Volhynia; at the suggestion of Vladimir Monomakh, at the Dolob congress in 1103, they decided to undertake a joint campaign against the Polovtsians, the Russians defeated the Polovtsians on the Sal River (in 1111) and took a lot of cattle, sheep, horses, etc. The Polovtsian princes alone killed up to 20 people . The fame of this victory spread far among the Greeks, Hungarians and other Slavs. Russian land.
Vladimir Monomakh (1113-1125)
Despite the seniority of the Svyatoslavichs, after the death of Svyatopolk II, Vladimir Monomakh was elected to the Kiev throne, who, according to the chronicle, “wanted good for the brethren and the whole Russian land.” He stood out for his great abilities, rare intelligence, courage and tirelessness. He was happy in his campaigns against the Polovtsians. He humbled the princes with his severity. The remarkable “teaching to children” he left behind, in which he gives purely Christian moral teaching and high example the prince's service to his homeland.
Mstislav - I (1125-1132)
Resembling his father Monomakh, Monomakh's son, Mstislav I, lived in harmony with his brothers in mind and character, inspiring respect and fear in the rebellious princes. So, he expelled the Polovtsian princes who disobeyed him to Greece, and instead of them, he installed his son to rule in the city of Polotsk.
Yaropolk (1132-1139)
Mstislav's brother, Yaropolk, son of Monomakh, decided to transfer the inheritance not to his brother Vyacheslav, but to his nephew. Thanks to the discord that arose from here, the Monomakhovichs lost the Kiev throne, which passed to the descendants of Oleg Svyatoslavovich - the Olegovichs.
Vsevolod - II (1139-1146)
Having achieved a great reign, Vsevolod wanted to consolidate the Kiev throne in his family and handed it over to his brother Igor Olegovich. But not recognized by the people of Kiev and tonsured a monk, Igor was soon killed.
Izyaslav - II (1146-1154)
The people of Kiev recognized Izyaslav II Mstislavovich, who vividly resembled his famous grandfather Monomakh with his intelligence, brilliant talents, courage and friendliness. With the accession of Izyaslav II to the grand-princely throne, the concept of seniority, rooted in ancient Rus', was violated: In one family, a nephew could not be a grand duke during his uncle’s lifetime. A stubborn struggle begins between Yuri Vladimirovich, the prince of Rostov-Suzdal, and Izyaslav II. Izyaslav was expelled from Kyiv twice, but still retained the throne until his death.
Yuri Dolgoruky (1154-1157)
The death of Izyaslav II opens Yuri, later called Dolgoruky by the people, access to the Kyiv throne, on which he, three years later, dies as a Grand Duke.
Mstislav - II (1157-1169)
After long strife between the princes, Mstislav II Izyaslavovich was confirmed on the Kiev throne. He is expelled from there by Andrei Yuryevich, nicknamed Bogolyubsky. At the same time, Andrei ravaged Kyiv (1169).
Andrey Bogolyubsky (1169-1174)
Having accepted the title of grand duke, Andrei Yuryevich transferred the throne to Vladimir on the Klyazma, and from then on Kyiv began to lose its primacy position. The stern and strict Andrei wanted to be autocratic, i.e., to rule Russia without a council or squads. Andrei Bogolyubsky mercilessly pursued the disgruntled boyars, they plotted against Andrei's life and killed him.
General characteristics of the 3rd century
After the death of Yaroslav the Wise, the Russian land was divided between his sons according to their relative seniority and the comparative profitability of the regions: The older the prince was, the better and richer the region was given to him. When someone from the princely family died, the younger relatives, following the deceased, moved from volost to volost. This redistribution of land in the 12th century was replaced by appanages, when one princely line was established in a certain area. But the usual order of the princely possession was often disrupted by disastrous quarrels between the princes, all the more disastrous because at that time the Black Sea steppe was occupied by the Polovtsians instead of the Pechenegs. However, if not in the south, then Slavic colonization (mainly Novgorod) is rising in the east and northeast of Rus'. The region was still headed by the prince, who consulted with the boyars from the warriors. Legislative power belonged to the veche of townspeople. Especially on for a long time the veche in Novgorod was important. The region was divided into districts (verei, graveyards), governed by persons appointed by the prince. The court was conducted by princely judges (tiuns) according to a collection of customary law, i.e., on the basis of folk customs of “Russian truth”. The church, which was in charge of family, religious and moral order, took a wide part in worldly affairs. The preachers Hilarion, Cyril, and Abbot Daniel visited the holy land and left a pious description of their pilgrimage.
Thus, in this century, religious faith develops under the influence of the church, family life and moral foundations, the colonization of Slavic tribes occurs, the judiciary is organized, for which the collection of laws “Russian Truth” serves as a guide, but the fragmentation of the Russian land into destinies and the resulting discord and wars do not make it possible to establish a general state order, and entail a weakening people's forces and bring on the Tatar enslavers, only the preaching of humility, obedience and love supports and approves the people's bearing all the hardships of life.
4th century, list of events
Vsevolod - III (1176-1212)
After the struggle and strife that arose following the death of Andrei Bogolyubsky between the ancient (Rostov, Suzdal) and new (Vladimir, Pereslavl) cities of the Suzdal region, Andrei’s brother, Vsevolod III “Big Nest” (the father of a large family), established himself in Vladimir. The prince was far-sighted and firm, having achieved a great degree of courage - although he did not live in Kyiv, he nevertheless bore the title of Grand Duke and was the first of the Russian princes to force him to swear allegiance to “himself and his children.”
Constantine - I (1212-1219)
The Grand Duke's throne was transferred by Vsevolod III not to his eldest son Constantine, with whom he was dissatisfied, but to his second son Yuri. In the feud that arose from this, Vsevolod’s third son, Yaroslav, also sided with Yuri, but Mstislav the Udaloy took the side of Constantine. Konstantin and Mstislav won (Battle of Lipetsk 1216) and Konstantin took the princely throne. After his death, the throne passed to Yuri.
Yuri - II (1219-1238)
Yuri waged successful wars with the Mordovians and the Volga Bulgarians. At the very extreme point of Russian possessions on the Volga, he built Nizhny Novgorod. During his reign, the Mongols appeared in the south-east of Europe from Central Asia in 1224 at Kalka (now within the borders of Yekaterinoslav). The Mongols inflicted a terrible defeat first on the Polovtsy, who roamed the southern Russian steppes, and then on the Russian princes who came to the aid of the Polovtsy. The Mongols placed the captured princes under the boards and sat down to feast on them. After the Battle of Kalka, the Mongols went to Central Asia and returned only 13 years later under the leadership of Batu, they ravaged the principalities of Ryazan and Suzdal, defeated a large army of the Grand Duke at the City River, and Yuri fell here, they destroyed southern Rus' over the course of two years and destroyed Kyiv. All Russian principalities had to recognize the heavy Tatar yoke over themselves, and the city of Sarai on the Volga River became the capital of the horde.
Yaroslav - II (1238-1252)
Yaroslav Vsevolodovich, Prince of Novgorod, by the grace of the Khan of the Golden Horde, sat on the grand-ducal throne. He actively took care of the restoration of Rus', devastated by the Mongols.
Alexander Nevsky (1252-1263)
Alexander Yaroslavovich was first the Prince of Novgorod. In 1240, he defeated the Swedes on the Neva and was nicknamed Nevsky for this victory: They say that Alexander Nevsky himself beat up many Swedes and “put a seal on the face of the leader Birger with his sharp spear.” Two years later, Alexander destroyed the German army in " battle on the ice": In addition, he successfully waged wars with Lithuania and Chud. Having received the khan's label for the great reign, Alexander appeared as an "intercessor and intercessor" for the Russian land. Four times he went to the horde with a bow, taking the khans a lot of silver and gold. Alexander Nevsky was counted to the sainthood, and Peter the Great transferred his relics to St. Petersburg to the Alexander Nevsky Lavra.
Daniel - I (1229-1264)
While Grand Duke Alexander Nevsky acted in the northeast of Rus', Daniil Romanovich reigned in the southwest of Rus'. Smart, brave and noble Daniil Romanovich Galitsky, after the invasion of the Tatars, again brought his possessions to a flourishing state. The crusade against the Tatars promised to him by the Pope did not take place, and Daniel had to humble himself before the Mongols in order to protect southwestern Rus' from the heavy yoke. After the end of his family, the Polish king Casimir III, in 1340, took possession of Galicia.
General characteristics of the 4th century
During this period, the importance of southwestern Rus' gradually decreased. Princely strife, heavy taxation of the lower classes of the population, the continuous attack on Rus' by the steppe nomads of the Polovtsians - all this drives the people from the Dnieper region, on the one hand, to the region of the river. Vistula, on the other hand - to the northeast, across the river. Ugra between the Oka and Volga rivers. Thanks to this, the Vladimir-Suzdal land in the northeast is strengthening, cities are being built, trade and industry are reviving, and the Great Russian nation is taking shape. Andrei Bogolyubsky puts forward the idea of a strong one-man princely power. Vladimir on Klyazma is gradually becoming new political center Rus'. The process of new development was delayed by the Tatar invasion. The Tatars, having devastated Rus', imposed another tribute on it (at first it was collected by the khan’s officials “Baskaks”, and then by the princes themselves). Fortunately, the Tatars were far away and did not interfere with internal management The Russians did not constrain the Orthodox Church. But still, the influence of the Tatar yoke was heavy: It was not for nothing that proverbs developed: “Angrier than an evil Tatar,” “an ill-fitting guest, worse than a Tatar,” etc. The Tatar yoke stopped the industry and trade of the people, slowed down the beginning of enlightenment, cut them off from relations with educated peoples, brought There is a lot of rough stuff in our lives (corporal punishment, seclusion of women, cunning and deception, oppression of the weak). Only faith and piety continue to support the Russian people in difficult times of the Tatars. Exhausted by material and spiritual needs, Russian people found solace in prayer in monasteries, churches, and parishes.
5th century, list of events
Yaroslav - III (1264-1272)
After the death of Alexander Nevsky, the dispute between Vasily and Yaroslav, Alexander's brothers, over the grand-ducal throne was resolved by the khan in favor of Yaroslav, in addition, he had previously been invited by the Novgorodians to reign, but was unable to get along with them, he even called on the Tatars against them . The metropolitan reconciled the prince with the Novgorodians and the prince was again “brought to the cross” by them.
Vasily - I (1272-1276)
Vasily I, of Kostroma, having received the grand-ducal throne according to the old order, discovered his claims to Novgorod, where Dmitry, the son of Alexander Nevsky, was already reigning. He soon achieved his goal. The desire of each Grand Duke to take possession of Novgorod was explained by the desire to strengthen his own principality, weakened by division into appanages.
Dmitry - I (1276-1294)
The Grand Duchy of Dmitry I of Pereslavl proceeded almost entirely in the struggle with his brother Andrei Alexandrovich over the rights of the Grand Duke. Three times Dmitry escaped from his brother and the Tatar regiments accompanying him, but when he returned, thanks to his allies, he again established himself on the throne. After the third flight, he finally asked Andrei for peace and received his Pereslavl principality.
Andrew - II (1294-1304)
Pursuing the greatest possible expansion of his possessions at the expense of other principalities, Andrei Alexandrovich decided to take possession of Pereslavl, in which Prince Ivan Dmitrievich died childless. This is where civil strife arose between Tver and Moscow; this dispute continued even after Andrei’s death.
Saint Michael (1304-1319)
Mikhail Yaroslavovich of Tverskoy, having given more output (tribute) to the khan, received the label for the grand duke primarily before Yuri Danilovich, the Prince of Moscow. But while he was at war with Novgorod, Yuri, with the help of the treacherous Khan's ambassador Kavgady, managed to slander Mikhail in front of Khan Uzbek. The Uzbek summoned Mikhail to the horde, where he tortured him for a long time, and then handed him over to the hands of murderers. At the same time, Mikhail, in order not to bring misfortune to the heads of his neighbors, did not agree to take advantage of the opportunity to escape.
Yuri - III (1320-1326)
Having married the sister of Khan Konchak, in Orthodoxy Agafya, Yuri acquired great strength and help from the Tatars who were related to him. But soon, thanks to the claims of Prince Dmitry, the son of Mikhail, who was tortured by Khan, he had to report to the horde. Here, at the first meeting with Dmitry, Yuri was killed by him, in revenge for the death of his father and for a violation of morality (marriage to a Tatar). Content
Dmitry - II (1326)
Dmitry Mikhailovich, nicknamed "formidable eyes", for the murder of Yuri III, was executed by the khan for arbitrariness.
Alexander Tverskoy (1326-1338)
The brother of Dmitry II, executed in the horde, Alexander Mikhailovich, was confirmed as khan on the grand-ducal throne. He was distinguished by his kindness and was loved by the people, but he ruined himself by allowing the Tver people to kill the hated Khan's ambassador Shchelkan. Khan sent 50,000 Tatar army against Alexander. Alexander fled from the khan's wrath to Pskov, and from there to Lithuania. Ten years later, Alexander of Tver returned and was forgiven by the khan. However, not getting along with the Prince of Moscow Ivan Kalita, Alexander was slandered by him before the khan, the khan summoned him to the horde and executed him.
John I Kalita (1320-1341)
John I Danilovich, a cautious and cunning prince, nicknamed Kalita (money purse) for his frugality, devastated the Tver principality with the help of the Tatars, taking advantage of the opportunity of violence of the indignant Tver residents against the Tatars. He took upon himself the collection of tribute from all over Rus' for the Tatars and, greatly enriched by this, bought cities from appanage princes. In 1326, the metropolitanate from Vladimir, thanks to the efforts of Kalita, was transferred to Moscow, and here, according to Metropolitan Peter, the Assumption Cathedral was founded. Since then, Moscow, as the seat of the Metropolitan of All Rus', has acquired the significance of a Russian center.
Simeon the Proud (1341-1353)
To Simeon Ioannovich, who inherited the grand-ducal throne after John I, the Tatar Khan “gave all the Russian princes under his hand,” calling himself the prince of all Rus'. Simeon treated other Russian princes as his assistants; he died childless from a pestilence.
John - II (1353-1359)
According to the will of brother Simeon the Proud, John -II Ioannovich, a meek and peace-loving prince, followed in everything the advice of Metropolitan Alexei, who was of great importance in the Horde. During this time, Moscow's relations with the Tatars improved significantly.
General characteristics of the 5th century
Thanks to many favorable conditions, the importance of Moscow is growing. Convenient geographical position between southwestern and northeastern Russia and protection from external enemies attracts more and more people here. Smart and practical Moscow princes take advantage of increasing income to expand their estates. Great importance What happened was that the Metropolitan moved to Moscow. The ecclesiastical significance of Moscow also strengthened its political role. Simultaneously with the collection northeastern Rus' near Moscow, in the southwest, the Lithuanian state is emerging.
Thus, the suffering and misfortune of the people, the humiliation of princely power under the influence of the heavy oppression of the Tatar khans little by little awakens the consciousness of the need to unite power. The center of unification is revealed - Moscow. All that is needed is strength and energy for the unification to become stronger and to be able to overthrow the oppressor - the Tatars. Representatives of the church also play a significant role in this association, influencing both the princes and the people with their words.
6th century, list of events
Dmitry - III Donskoy (1363-1389)
When John II died, his son Dmitry was still young, so the khan gave the great reign to Dmitry Konstantinovich of Suzdal (1359-1363). But the Moscow boyars, who benefited from the strengthening of the Moscow prince, achieved a great reign for Dmitry Ioannovich. Dmitry Konstantinovich submitted to force, and other princes of northeastern Rus' also submitted to Dmitry Ioannovich. Meanwhile, Rus''s attitude towards the Tatars changed significantly. Civil strife in the horde allowed Dmitry not to pay tribute to the Tatars at all. Khan Mamai decided to remind Rus' of the times of Batu and, in alliance with Jagiell, the Prince of Lithuania, moved a huge army to Russian soil. Prince Dmitry with the princes subject to Moscow went to meet Mamaia, having previously received a blessing from the Trinity Monastery St. Sergius. The battle of Dmitry with Mamai on the Kulikovo field, near the Don River, on September 8, 1380, ended with the triumph of the Russians, although, according to the chronicle, thanks to the losses, “the entire Russian land was completely depleted of governors and all kinds of troops.” The need for unity to repel the enemy has now become especially recognized in Rus'. Dmitry, nicknamed Donskoy for the Battle of Kulikovo, did not stop caring about strengthening Moscow until the end of his days.
Vasily - I (1389-1425)
Sharing the reign with his father, Vasily I ascended the throne as an experienced prince and, following the example of his predecessors, actively expanded the boundaries of the Moscow principality: He acquired Nizhny Novgorod and other cities. In 1395, Rus' was in danger of an invasion by Timur, the formidable Tatar khan. Meanwhile, Vasily did not pay tribute to the Tatars, but collected it into the grand ducal treasury. In 1408, the Tatar Murza Edigei attacked Moscow, but after receiving a ransom of 3,000 rubles, he lifted the siege from it. In the same year, after long disputes between Vasily I and the Lithuanian prince Vytautas, both cautious and cunning, the Ugra River was designated as the extreme border of Lithuanian possessions on the Russian side.
Vasily - II the Dark (1425-1462)
Yuri Dmitrievich Galitsky took advantage of Vasily II's youth, declaring his claims to seniority. But at the trial in the horde, the khan leaned in favor of Vasily, thanks to the efforts of the smart Moscow boyar Ivan Vsevolozhsky. The boyar hoped to marry his daughter to Vasily, but was disappointed in his hopes: Offended, he left Moscow to Yuri Dmitrievich and assisted him in taking possession of the grand-ducal throne, on which Yuri died in 1434, when Yuri’s son Vasily the Oblique decided to inherit his father’s power, then all the princes rebelled against him. Vasily II took him prisoner and blinded him: Then Dmitry Shemyaka, brother of Vasily Kosoy, captured Vasily II by cunning, blinded him and took the Moscow throne. Soon, however, Shemyaka had to give the throne to Vasily II. During the reign of Vasily II, the Greek metropolitan Isidore accepted the Florentine Union (1439), for this Vasily II put Isidore in custody, and the Ryazan Bishop John was installed as metropolitan. Thus, from now on, Russian metropolitans are appointed by a council of Russian bishops. During the last years of the Grand Duchy, the internal structure of the Grand Duchy was the subject of the main concerns of Vasily II.
General characteristics of the 6th century
The process of uniting Rus' around Moscow continued. Rivalry with Lithuania begins as a result of the desire of Moscow and Lithuania to unite the entire Russian nation under their rule. The chances of both were more or less the same until the Lithuanian prince Jagiello married the Polish queen Jadwiga and thus began Polish influence in Rus'. This strengthening of Lithuania forced many to reach out to Moscow as an all-Russian center. With the gradual rise of Moscow, the great princes of Moscow sought to destroy the rule of the Tatar khans, which was facilitated by the fall from the Golden Horde of two khanates - the Crimean and Kazan. And so, the desire for unification grows stronger, favorable circumstances emerge: On the one hand, the rise of Moscow, on the other, the weakening of the Tatars, the disintegration of their formidable power. The attempts of the princes to overthrow the yoke begin to gain more chances of success, and a new road is shining before Russia.
7th century, list of events
John - III (1462-1505)
Accepted by his father as a co-ruler, John III Vasilyevich ascended the grand-ducal throne as the full owner of Rus'. He first severely punished the Novgorodians who had decided to become Lithuanian subjects, and in 1478, “for a new offense,” he finally subjugated them. At this meeting, the Novgorodians lost their self-government, and the Novgorod mayor Maria and veche bell were sent to John's camp. In 1485, after the final conquest of other appanages more or less dependent on the Moscow principality, John finally annexed the Tver principality to Moscow. By this time, the Tatars were divided into three independent hordes: Golden, Kazan and Crimean. They were at enmity with each other and were no longer afraid of the Russians. Having secured themselves from the Kazan Tatars and entered into an alliance with Crimean Khan Mengli-Gireem, John III in 1480 tore up the khan's basma, ordered the khan's ambassadors to be taken to execution, and then overthrew the Tatar yoke without bloodshed. John also emerged victorious in the fight against Lithuania; Alexander of Lithuania ceded the northern region to John. Having been widowed back in 1467, John III entered into marriage with Sophia Paleologus, the last Byzantine princess and combined the coat of arms of the Moscow principality, depicting St. George the Victorious, with the double-headed eagle of the Byzantine Empire. From then on, John surrounded himself with splendor and luxury, entered into relations with Western Europe, and showed more independence in relation to the boyars. He cared a lot about the external decoration of the capital, erected cathedrals in Moscow: Assumption, Archangel, Annunciation, built a stone palace, the Faceted Chamber and several towers of the Moscow Kremlin. In 1497, John published a collection of laws called “Code of Laws”. Since the time of John III, the right to mint coins belongs only to the Grand Duke of Moscow.
Vasily - III (1505-1533)
The son of John III from his marriage to Sophia, Palaeologus Vasily III, was distinguished by his pride and inaccessibility, punishing the descendants of appanage princes and boyars under his control who dared to contradict him. He is "the last collector of the Russian land." Having annexed the last appanages (Pskov, the northern principality), he completely destroyed the appanage system. He fought twice with Lithuania, following the teachings of the Lithuanian nobleman Mikhail Glinsky, who entered his service, and finally, in 1514, he took Smolensk from the Lithuanians. The war with Kazan and Crimea was difficult for Vasily, but ended in the punishment of Kazan: Trade was diverted from there to the Makaryev fair, which was later moved to Nizhny. Vasily divorced his wife Solomonia and married Princess Elena Glinskaya, which further aroused the boyars who were dissatisfied with him against him. From this marriage Vasily had a son, John.
Elena Glinskaya (1533-1538)
Appointed ruler of the state by Vasily III, the mother of three-year-old John Elena Glinskaya immediately took drastic measures against the boyars who were dissatisfied with her. She made peace with Lithuania and decided to fight the Crimean Tatars, who boldly attacked Russian possessions, but in the midst of preparations for a desperate struggle she died suddenly.
John - IV the Terrible (1538-1584)
Left at the age of 8 in the hands of the boyars, the intelligent and talented Ivan Vasilyevich grew up amid the struggle of parties over the rule of the state, among violence, secret murders and incessant exile. Having himself often suffered oppression from the boyars, he learned to hate them, and the cruelty, riotousness and rudeness that surrounded him contributed to the hardening of his heart. In 1547, John was crowned king and was the first of the Russian sovereigns to take the title of “Tsar of Moscow and All Rus'.” John's marriage to Anastasia Romanova, thanks to the latter's excellent spiritual qualities, influenced him beneficial influence. At the same time, the unrest and disasters that began in the capital and the terrible fires had a strong effect on the impressionable John. He brought honest and kind advisers Sylvester and Adashev closer to him and took up internal affairs. The Tsar convened the electors in 1550 for the first Zemsky Sobor, which approved the first Tsar's Code of Law, and the following year a conciliar decree for the clergy was issued, called Stoglav. In 1552, Ivan conquered Kazan, which dominated the entire Volga region, and in 1556 the kingdom of Astrakhan was annexed to the Moscow state. The desire to establish himself on the shores of the Baltic Sea forced John to start the Livonian War, which brought him into conflict with Poland and Sweden. The war began quite successfully, but ended with the most unfavorable truce for John with Poland and Sweden: John not only did not establish himself on the shores of the Baltic, but also lost the coast of the Gulf of Finland, after the removal of Sylvester and Adashev who fell out of favor and with the death of the meek Queen Anastasia, in character John there was a significant change for the worse, but the flight of Prince Andrei Kurbsky to Poland aroused John's suspicion of the loyalty of all his boyars. The sad era of "searches", disgrace and executions began. John left Moscow, went with his entourage to the Alexandrovskaya Sloboda and here surrounded himself with guardsmen, whom John contrasted with the rest of the land, the zemshchina. The guardsmen greatly abused their extensive rights. At this time, the holy Metropolitan Philip died, denouncing the king of lawlessness. In 1570, John defeated Novgorod, which was reported to have entered into secret agreements with Poland. In 1582, the Don Cossacks under the command of Ermak conquered the vast Siberian kingdom to the Moscow state. Three years before his death, John, in a fit of anger, hit his son John on the head with a rod, and his son died from this blow. John IV received the popular nickname of the Terrible.
General characteristics of the 7th century
“Collecting” Rus' is already becoming a conscious and persistent task of the Moscow princes. The last destinies are falling.
The state borders coincide with the ethnographic borders of the Great Russian people. Politics from local, Moscow, turns into national Great Russian. In accordance with this, the importance of the prince also increases: He takes the title of sovereign, and soon the king of all Rus' and autocrat. The eldest son receives all the advantages over the younger ones. The struggle that arose between the tsar and the boyars (its reasons are especially clearly revealed in the correspondence of Tsar Ivan the Terrible with the boyar Andrei Kurbsky) ends in favor of the tsar. The hereditary nobility - the boyars - are being pushed aside by the distinguished people - the nobles. In the middle of the 16th century, book printing began in Rus'. The first book to be published was “Acts and Epistles of the Apostles” (1564). After the overthrow of the Tatar yoke, we again come face to face with Western Europe. Its influence penetrates to us through southwestern Rus', which was already drawn into Polish education (culture), especially after the Union of Lublin in 1569. In the 16th century, the Russian Church was freed from subordination to the Greek Church. Metropolitans are installed in Rus' by local bishops at the direction of the grand dukes. The clergy and church continue to act in accordance with the princes. The latter are greatly supported by the Trinity-Sergius Lavra and the Joseph-Volokolamsky Monastery. Thus, the dawn of a new life lights up: The development of educational influence begins, although internal turmoil, as a legacy passed from appanage princes to the emerging upper class of boyars, interferes with the correct development of both state and folk life. The civil strife of the princes ended - the civil strife (disputes, localism, envy) of the boyars began.
8th century, list of events
Fyodor Ioannovich (1584-1598)
The second son of John IV, Fyodor, was distinguished by his illness and weak mental abilities, which is why the government of the state soon passed into the hands of the tsar’s brother-in-law, the intelligent and far-sighted boyar Boris Godunov. Having removed all his opponents by disgrace and exile, Godunov surrounded himself with devoted people and became the sovereign ruler of the state. He maintains relations with Western states, builds cities and fortifications on the borders of Rus' and established an Arkhangelsk harbor on the White Sea. According to his thoughts, an independent all-Russian patriarchate was approved and the peasants were finally attached to the land. In 1591, Tsarevich Dmitry, the brother of the childless Tsar Fyodor and his heir, was killed, and six years later Fyodor himself died.
Boris Godunov (1598-1605)
After the abdication of the throne of Tsarina Irina, the wife of Tsar Fyodor and Godunov’s sister, Boris’s adherents, at the insistence of Patriarch Job, convened a Zemsky Sobor, which elected Boris Godunov. The tsar's suspicion and fear of intrigues on the part of the boyars caused disgrace and exile, and the boyar Fyodor Nikitich Romanov was cut under the name of the monk Philaret, and his young son Mikhail was exiled to Beloozero. The boyars became embittered against Boris, and the popular disasters that befell the Muscovite kingdom - a three-year crop failure and pestilence - prompted the people to blame Tsar Boris for everything. The tsar tried to help the starving, added income from government buildings (the bell tower of Ivan the Great), distributed alms, but the people still grumbled, willingly believing rumors about the appearance of the legitimate Tsar Dmitry. In the midst of preparations for the fight against False Dmitry, Godunov died suddenly, bequeathing his throne to his son Fedor.
False Dmitry (1605-1606)
Grigory Otrepyev, as they say, a fugitive monk supported by the Poles, declared himself Tsarevich Dmitry, who allegedly escaped from the murderers in Uglich. With several thousand people he entered Russia. The army sent to the meeting went over to the side of False Dmitry, who was recognized by them as king, and Fyodor Godunov was killed. False Dmitry was a very developed man, distinguished by his intelligence and good nature, and worked diligently state affairs, but aroused the displeasure of the people and clergy with disrespect for old Russian customs. The boyars, having spread a rumor about the impostor tsar, led by Vasily Shuisky, formed a conspiracy and killed False Dmitry.
Vasily Shuisky (1606-1610)
The old, indecisive and inexperienced Vasily Shuisky was elected tsar by the boyars and townspeople, and his power was limited. Thanks to rumors that arose about the rescue of the murdered False Dmitry, new unrest began in Russia, which was intensified by the rebellion of the slave Ivan Bolotnikov and the appearance of False Dmitry II, the “Tushino thief” in Tushino. The Polish king went to war against Moscow, and his commanders scattered the Russian troops. Then Tsar Vasily was “reduced” from the throne and forcibly tonsured a monk. It has arrived in Russia Time of Troubles interregnum.
Mikhail Fedorovich (1613-1645)
Thanks to the letters sent out by the Trinity Lavra calling for the defense of the fatherland and Orthodoxy, a large militia under the leadership of Prince Dmitry Pozharsky, with the active participation of the Nizhny Novgorod zemstvo elder Kozma Minin Sukhoruky, headed towards Moscow and, after much effort, liberated the capital from the Poles and rebels. On February 21, 1613, the Great Zemstvo Duma elected Mikhail Fedorovich Romanov as king; after much begging, he ascended the throne and began to pacify internal and external enemies. Mikhail concluded the Stolbov Treaty with Sweden, and the Deulino Treaty (1618) with Poland. According to this last treaty, after a long captivity, Filaret, the tsar's parent, was returned to Russia and was immediately elevated to the rank of patriarch. Filaret became co-ruler and reliable adviser to his son. At the end of the reign of Mikhail Fedorovich, Russia had already significantly recovered from the horrors of the Time of Troubles and began to enter into friendly relations with Western states.
Alexey Mikhailovich (1645-1676)
Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich was one of the best people of ancient Rus'. He not only performed fasts and church rituals, but also had a church feeling. He was of a gentle and “much quiet” character; having offended someone in a short anger, he could not calm down for a long time and sought reconciliation. The tsar's closest advisers in the early years were his uncle b. I. Morozov, in the 50s Patriarch Nikon, in the end boyar A. S. Matveev. Taxes that were unbearable for the people, the injustice of officials, echoes of the old unrest, caused a number of popular riots in different cities (Moscow, Solvychegodsk, Ustyug, Novgorod, Pskov, the riot of Razin, Bryukhovetsky, etc.) And in different time. Voluntary accession Little Russia to the Moscow state caused two wars between Russia and Poland. Russia was able to endure these heavy blows only thanks to the concentration of power, unity, correctness and continuity in orders. Of the internal orders under Alexander Mikhailovich, the most significant are: the Council Code of 1649 and, as an addition to it, the new trade charter and new decree articles on robbery and murder and on estates. New central institutions were founded: Orders of secret affairs, grain, reitar, accounting affairs, Little Russian, monastery. Heavy classes are permanently assigned to the place of residence. In the church, Patriarch Nikon undertook the necessary reform - the correction of liturgical books, which, however, caused a schism, i.e., a falling away from the Russian Church. Russian colonialists became famous in Siberia: A. Bulygin, O. Stepanov, E. Khabarov, and others. New cities appeared: Nerchinsk, Irkutsk, Selenginsk. The best people in Moscow were already creating the need for science and transformation. These are the persons as boyars: A.L. Ordyn-Nashchekin, A.S. Matveev, Prince V. Golitsin. After the death of Tsar Alexei, from his first marriage to Maria Milaslavskaya there were children, two sons: Fyodor and John and several daughters; from his second marriage to Natalya Naryshkina, a son, Peter, was born in 1672.
General characteristics of the 8th century
Most of this period is occupied by "turmoil in the Moscow state." The impetus and pretext was the end of the dynasty, the real reason was the selfishness and injustice of the boyars, the ignorance of the people, who had lost the habit of respecting the honor and property of their neighbors during the Tatar yoke, the Cossacks and other “walking” people, and finally the Poles. Strong national and religious ties saved Rus', but having driven out the Poles, the Russians did not completely stop the unrest; its echoes can be seen in the riots of the time of Alexei Mikhailovich. The supreme power of the 16th-17th centuries became so strong that it did not need protection. The rights of the service class are being strengthened and developed; it has taken into its own hands great amount lands. Peasants are attached to the land for economic interests. The representative of the Russian Church, in accordance with the new order, receives the title of patriarch. The government and the patriarch are busy correcting liturgical books, into which many errors have crept in due to the ignorance and illiteracy of copyists and sometimes translators. This correction was completed under Patriarch Nikon. Many did not accept the correction and fell away from the Orthodox Church.
9th century, list of events
Fyodor Alekseevich (1676-1682)
Under Tsar Fyodor Alekseevich, the so-called Little Russian question ended: Eastern Little Russia and Zaporozhye remained with Moscow, and the western part went to Turkey. Under him, localism was abolished - the custom of Moscow boyars to consider the service of their ancestors when taking a place in the military and civil service, in court ceremonies and at the royal table. At the insistence of the tsar, Nikon and Matveev were returned from exile. Tsar Fyodor Alekseevich died childless.
Ivan Alekseevich (1682-1689)
Thanks to the Streltsy revolt, Ivan Alekseevich, frail and weak-minded, was recognized as tsar along with the unanimously elected Peter Alekseevich, but Tsarevich Ivan did not take any part in state affairs; he died in 1696. Russia was ruled by Princess Sofia at this time.
Sophia - ruler (1682-1689)
By all accounts, Sofia Alekseevna was “of great intelligence and the most tender insight, a maiden filled with more masculine intelligence.” She stopped the unrest of the schismatics, curbed the rebellious archers, and concluded a deal beneficial for Russia " eternal peace"with the Poles and the Nerchinsk Treaty with China, undertook campaigns against the Crimean Tatars. Sophia fell victim to her lust for power. Peter penetrated into her plans and imprisoned her in the Novodevichy Convent, where she died in 1704.
Peter the Great (1682-1725)
Tsar Peter Velikiy Alekseevich belongs to the ranks of geniuses. His mental strength was extraordinary: a fast, highly embracing mind, an iron will and continuous work. Until the age of 10, Peter goes through an ancient Russian, almost church school; from the age of 10, he becomes a witness to the bloody events of the Streltsy rebellion: The intrigues of Sophia the ruler drive him out of the Kremlin palace: He leads an extremely active life, among war games, classes in mathematical and technical sciences, and trips around palace villages. Peter completes his education abroad. He saw a lot, learned a lot and developed extraordinary intelligence and efficiency. He demanded the same from others. Giving all of himself to the service of Russia, Peter believed “in its great future.” He patronized foreigners not for their own sake, but for the sake of the development of sciences, arts, factories and trade in the country. Even before his trip abroad, Peter took the Azov fortress from the Turks. In 1700, in alliance with Denmark and Poland, Peter began the Northern War against Sweden. The first military actions of the Russians against the Swedes, who fought under the command of their young but gifted king Charles XII, were unsuccessful and ended in a major defeat of the Russian troops near Narva: But soon, thanks to Peter’s tireless preparation of new regiments to fight the enemy, the Swedes began to suffer from the Russians defeats. Peter took the Swedish fortress of Noteburg in Ingria, ancient nut, renamed it Shlisselburg and in 1703 founded the new capital of St. Petersburg on the banks of the Neva, and founded the fortress of Kronstadt on the island of Kotlin. By founding St. Petersburg, Peter created a strong fortress that provided Russia with access to the Baltic Sea, a convenient port to which many trade routes from the Russian north and center were drawn together, and finally, a new capital that facilitated our relations with Western Europe. Meanwhile, Charles XII, having conquered Poland and using the help of the traitor Mazepa, the Little Russian hetman, quickly moved to Little Russia and here in 1709 besieged the city of Poltava. The Poltava battle ended in complete triumph for Peter, Charles XII fled to Turkey and caused the Prut campaign, which was unsuccessful for Russia. Russia had to give up Azov, but the ongoing northern war was happy and ended with the Peace of Nystad, according to which Sweden renounced Livonia, Estonia, Ingria and part of Finland with the city of Vyborg. Peter was given the title of Emperor of All Russia. Of Peter's internal transformations, the most remarkable are: The abolition of the patriarchate in 1700 and the transfer of control of all church affairs into the hands of the "locum tenens of the patriarchal throne", and from 1721 of the Holy Synod, the establishment of a governing senate; in 1711, instead of the former boyar duma, a collegium instead "orders" for each individual industry government controlled, transformation of estates, division of the state into 12 provinces and the establishment of court courts in the most important cities, organization special schools and schools and the creation of regular troops. Everywhere, directly involved in everything, the sovereign transformer cared about the development of Russian trade and industry, about ending the seclusion of women, about softening the morals of society, about improving the life of the lower strata of the people and had a remarkable ability to choose his associates, among whom are famous: Menshikov, Sheremetyev, Dolgoruky , the Golitsyn brothers, Kurakin, Matveev, Shafirov, Yaguzhinsky and foreigners - Osterman, Bruce, Minikh and others. Peter's son from his divorced wife Lopukhina, Tsarevich Alexei, for his obvious disgust at his father's transformations, was put on trial by Peter. The Tsarevich was sentenced to death, but the Tsarevich died before the sentence was carried out. From Peter’s second marriage to Ekaterina Alekseevna, two daughters were born: Anna and Elizaveta. Peter died after catching a cold while rescuing drowning soldiers during a great flood and was named the Great by posterity.
Catherine - I (1725-1727)
Peter the Great did not leave a will. The throne passed to his wife Catherine, not without struggle between different parties. Catherine I opened the Academy of Sciences in 1726, sent Bering to trip around the world and, at the request of Menshikov and his other supporters, established the supreme privy council, Menshikov seized government power into his own hands and persuaded the Empress to appoint Tsarevich Peter Alekseevich, the son of Tsarevich Alexei Petrovich, as heir, and allow him, upon reaching adulthood, to marry Menshikov’s daughter, Princess Maria. During the minority of Tsarevich Peter, Menshikov was appointed ruler of the state.
Peter - II (1727-1730)
Peter II was not king for long and, moreover, all the time under the influence of others. The greedy and autocratic Menshikov fell, but the long-armed ones emerged. To strengthen their influence, they tried in every possible way to distract the emperor from his business with fun and amusements, and decided to marry him to Princess E. A. Dolgoruky. This intention was thwarted early death Petra from smallpox.
Anna Ioannovna (1730-1740)
The Supreme Privy Council decided to limit autocracy and chose the daughter of Tsar John Alekseevich, the Dowager Duchess of Courland Anna Ioannovna, but she was crowned an autocratic empress. The Supreme Privy Council was destroyed and replaced by an equal cabinet. The Russian nobles gave way to the Courlander Biron and the Germans Minich and Ostern. The administration was cruel and disastrous for Russia: At the slightest displeasure, “word and deed” were heard, and those who grumbled were tortured, executed or exiled. In 1733, Russia intervened in the affairs of Poland, and this war cost great sacrifices: the regions conquered under Peter I were returned to Persia. Of the internal orders of Anna Ioannovna, the most worthy of attention are: Limiting the service life of nobles to 25 years, eliminating the law on single inheritance, establishing a cadet corps in St. Petersburg, increasing the guards of the Izmailovo and cavalry regiments. Before her death, Anna Ioannovna appointed the infant Ivan Antonovich, the son of her niece Anna Leopoldovna, as heir to the throne, and confirmed Biron as regent of the state. Biron was soon overthrown, however, and Anna Leopoldovna, who was completely incapable of governing the state, was declared ruler.
Elizaveta Petrovna (1741-1761)
Many were dissatisfied with Anna Leopoldovna's reign. The Guard carried out a coup and proclaimed the daughter of Peter the Great, Princess Elizabeth, empress. In order to strengthen the throne, Anna Petrovna’s son, Pyotr Fedorovich, was appointed her heir. Under Elizabeth, Russia fought two wars: the Swedish and the so-called Seven Years' War. The war with Sweden ended in peace in Åbo in 1743, according to which part of Finland up to the Kymen River was annexed to Russia. Taking part in the seven-year war (Austria and France with Prussia), Elizaveta Petrovna, in the person of her commanders, greatly constrained the King of Prussia, Frederick II, but the death of the empress served to stop further military actions against Prussia. Of the internal events of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna, the most important is the destruction of the cabinet. The Empress returned the Senate to its former significance. She also restored the former magistrate. In 1744, a decree was issued abolishing the death penalty for criminal offenses. She divided Russia into five recruiting districts and established an order in recruitment. The establishment of the first loan banks in Russia for nobles and merchants in 1754, the opening in 1755, according to Lomonosov's plan, of the first university in Moscow and the founding of the first theater in 1756 were beneficial. The Empress's zealous associates in implementing reasonable reforms were Counts Peter and Ivan Shuvalov.
Peter - III (1761-1762)
Good-natured, but incapable of governing the vast Russian state, Peter III aroused all layers of Russian society against himself with his attraction to everything German, to the detriment of Russian interests. He reformed the troops according to the Prussian model, and he made a lot of concessions to Frederick II. The decrees of Peter III on the freedom of the nobility and on the destruction of the secret office were not sufficiently specific. Her attitude towards the empress pushed her towards a coup; on June 28, 1762, Peter III abdicated the throne and soon died alone, abandoned by everyone.
General characteristics of the 9th century
The most important issue in the foreign policy of the Moscow state during this time was the attitude towards Poland, which had captured southwestern Rus'. The annexation of Little Russia to Moscow, which took place back in 1654, and Moscow’s general support for the Russian people and Orthodox faith in the southwest caused a series of wars with Poland. The time of Peter the Great, being a continuation of the foreign and domestic policies of the state of the 17th century, was marked by special energy in carrying out the reforms planned by life. In education, Russia is subject to Western European influence. Writers assimilate the Western European literary form and are active assistants to the government in protecting and disseminating education (Fedor Prokopovich, Stefan Yavorsky, Pososhkov, Tatishchev, Kantemir, Lomonosov, Sumarokov).
10th century, list of events
Catherine - II (1762-1796)
The reign of Catherine II is one of the most remarkable after Peter the Great. By nature, Catherine had great intelligence and character. Self-education and observation expanded her horizons. With the help of skillfully chosen associates, the Empress created a brilliant period in Russian history. During her reign there were two wars with Turkey. In the first, Rumyantsev Zadunaisky and Orlov Chesmensky especially distinguished themselves. Thanks to their victories, Russia acquired the shores of the Sea of Azov, and Turkey recognized the independence of Crimea. At Potemkin's insistence, Crimea was occupied by the Russians. Cities began to emerge in Novorossiya. The Russian Black Sea Fleet appears. Türkiye declares a second war. They became famous in it: Suvorov, the capture of the Izmail fortress and the victories at Fokshanakh and Rymnik. Türkiye recognized all the northern shores of the Black Sea as Russian possessions. At the very beginning of her reign, Catherine had to intervene in Polish affairs. Unrest in the Polish state and the oppression of dissidents (non-Catholics) was the cause of the Polish partitions. Under the first section, Russia received most Livonia and Belarus to the Dvina, Druch and Dnieper, in the second section the rest of Belarus, Ukraine, Podolia and the eastern part of Polesie and Volyn, in the third section - Lithuania. The wars with Sweden and Persia were fruitless. Popular disasters include the appearance of the plague in Moscow in 1771 and the Pugachev rebellion in 1773-1775. The empress was occupied with more than one external struggle. Her internal transformations are also very remarkable. First of all, Catherine promotes the development of classes. She gives letters of grant to the nobility, prenatal status. In connection with class reforms, a “commission was convened to draft a new code,” something like Zemsky Cathedral. Catherine herself wrote an “instruction” for the leadership of this commission, but the goal was not achieved at all and the commission was soon dissolved. Regarding the provinces, the empress adhered to a policy of centralization. The establishment of the provinces in 1775 divided Russia into 50 provinces, with increased power of governors. In economic terms, the following are important: the transfer of church property to the management of the board of savings, the establishment of a state bank, the introduction of a tax farming system. Catherine II’s numerous concerns about public health were the medical board, smallpox vaccination and education. Cadet corps (engineering and artillery), the Smolny Institute for girls, orphanages in Moscow were established in St. Petersburg, a general charter for public schools was developed, and a Russian academy was opened for the scientific processing of the Russian language. Catherine II, gifted with literary talent, patronized literature and herself took an active part in it. In her comedies, fairy tales and other articles, she served the cause of education no less than with her laws. During her reign, besides Lomonosov, the most famous writers were Derzhavin, Fonvizin and Novikov.
Paul - I (1796-1801)
Emperor Paul I did not approve of the transformations of his sovereign mother and in many ways deviated from her plans and views on governing the state. Upon ascending the throne, he wanted to deal exclusively with state affairs and stop preparations for war with France. He was soon forced to come to the aid of European states in the fight against France. He called Suvorov out of disgrace and sent him to “save the kings.” The Russians inflicted a series of defeats on the French and made an unprecedented crossing of the Alps (Devil's Bridge), but the allies prevented the matter from being completed and Paul I recalled his troops to Russia. Of the internal transformations of Emperor Paul I, the following are remarkable: “Institutions on the imperial family”, on the order of succession to the throne, significant relief for serfs (3-day corvee), the establishment of new women's institutions and the opening of a university in Dorpat.
Alexander - I the Blessed (1801-1825)
Raised by his grandmother, the empress Catherine II and having received a thorough education, Alexander I Pavlovich, upon accession to the throne, declared that he would rule “according to the laws and the heart” of Catherine II, and follow her wise intentions. The first years of the reign of the young emperor were filled with the most rosy hopes. A number of liberation measures of various kinds caused delight in society. But more complicated external relations diverted attention from internal tasks. Alexander I was forced to fight Napoleon at the beginning in an alliance with Austria, and the Russians were defeated at Austerlitz: Then in an alliance with Prussia. After the defeat of the Russians at Friedland, Alexander concluded the Peace of Tilzin. Russia accepted Napoleon's continental system, i.e., it pledged not to trade with England. The burden of this system for Russia and Napoleon’s violation of his promises led to a rupture and the war of 1812. Napoleon, at the head of a huge army, invaded Russia: The Russians began to retreat into the country: Such tactics were followed by the commanders Barclay de Tolly and Kutuzov (council in Fili). A bloody battle took place on the Borodino field, but to no avail. Napoleon occupied Moscow, but it was burned by the inhabitants: The French experienced cold and hunger: Then Napoleon moved south: Along the way he was defeated at Maloyaroslavets: His army still suffered from a lack of provisions and severe frosts: When crossing the Berezina River they were almost destroyed the very remains great army. On December 25, 1812, Russia celebrated the liberation of the Russian land from the invasion of the “twelve languages.” Continuing the fight against Napoleon outside Russia in an alliance with Prussia, Austria and Sweden, Alexander I in 1814, after a series of brilliant victories at Kulm, Leipzig and Fer-Champenoise, solemnly entered Paris. In 1815, at the “Congress of Vienna”, the Duchy of Warsaw annexed Russia and a “holy alliance” was concluded between Russia, Prussia and Austria. Of the reforms of Emperor Alexander I, the following are especially remarkable: The establishment of the State Council (1800), ministries (1802) and the Committee of Ministers, the founding of Kazan, Kharkov and St. Petersburg universities, as well as pedagogical institutes and gymnasiums. Tsarsko-Selo lyceums and corps, taking measures to establish a peasant class, in order to facilitate their significant life. The most significant associates of the emperor were: At the beginning of Novosiltsev, Stroganov, Kochubey, then Speransky and at the end of the reign of Arakcheev. At the end of his reign, the emperor's mood was one of fatigue and disappointment. The ardent dreams of youth remained unfulfilled. The reason for this lay in the vagueness of the dreams themselves, the inability to find practical means for their implementation, and partly in the lack of employees. Alexander I trusted Arakcheev, but Arakcheev aroused displeasure among the people with his military settlements. Emperor Alexander I died childless.
Nicholas (1825-1855)
As a result of the abdication of the throne of Konstantin Pavlovich, brother of Emperor Alexander I, he ascended the throne younger brother Emperor Nicholas I. In the war with Persia, in 1828, he acquired the khanates of Erivan and Nakhichevan under the Turkmanchay Peace and received a large indemnity. Turkey's war over Greece, which it oppressed, after a series of Russian victories over the Turks, ended with the Peace of Andrianople, which recognized the independence of Greece, defined the Prut and Danube rivers as the borders of Russia and ensured the possibility of the safe existence of Serbia. Polish uprising After a series of battles it was suppressed in 1832, the constitution in Poland was destroyed. In 1839, the Uniates reunited with the Orthodox Church. As a result of a new break with Turkey, which was aided by England, France and Sardinia, Emperor Nicholas I had to endure a stubborn struggle with his strongest enemy. They concentrated in Sevastopol, heroically defended by Russian troops. In 1853, the entire Turkish fleet was destroyed at the Battle of Sinop. During the defense of Sevastopol, Emperor Nicholas I suddenly fell ill and died. Fruitful activity Emperor Nicholas I According to the internal structure of Russia, it was marked by: The publication in 1830 of the “complete collection of laws of the Russian Empire,” 45 volumes (this work was led by Speransky and was generously awarded by the emperor, he was elevated to the rank of count and received the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called). By taking measures to improve the life of peasants, by founding the Kyiv University of St. Vladimir, technological and pedagogical institutes, a military academy, a law school and cadet corps, and by constructing the Nikolaev and Tsarsko-Selo railways. During the reign of Emperor Nicholas I, great writers of the Russian land showed themselves: Karamzin, Zhukovsky, both of whom actually belonged to the previous reign, Krylov, Griboedov, Pushkin, Lermontov, Gogol, Belinsky. Content
General characteristics of the 10th century
State life is becoming more complicated. In foreign policy Questions allowed: Polish, Turkish or Oriental. Having gone through several stages from the most favorable in 1829-1833 to the Sevastopol disaster, the Eastern question became a pan-European one. Russia is being drawn into European politics (the fight against Napoleon, the fight against the European revolution). Internally, the central and regional administration is being reformed. The country's productive forces are developing, education is acquiring a national character, especially in the field of art.
11th century, list of events
Alexander - II Liberator (1855-1881)
Alexander II ended the difficult eastern war with the Parisian peace on conditions that were very painful for Russia. Russia ceded to Turkey the mouth of the Danube, part of Bessarabia, Kars and pledged not to establish a fleet in the Black Sea. According to the Aigun Treaty with China in 1858, Russia acquired the vast Amur region, and in 1860 the Ussuri region. In 1864, the Caucasus was finally annexed to Russia, and the leader of the Caucasian highlanders, Shamil, was captured and sent to Russia. In 1863, the Polish rebellion was pacified, the need to protect the eastern border of Russia from the raids of nomads caused our conquest in Central Asia (Turkestan, Khiva). Thanks to some changes in Western Europe, Russia freed itself in 1871 from the harsh conditions of the Paris Treaty: Our right to have a navy on the Black Sea was restored. In 1877, the violence of the Turks against the Orthodox subjects of the Sultan in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the unequal struggle of the Slavic principalities of Serbia and Montenegro with Turkey prompted Emperor Alexander II to take upon himself the defense of the oppressed Christians. The war was waged with varying success against a powerful enemy, and the capture of Kars in 1877 and Plevna with the capture of the Turkish commander-in-chief Ottoman Pasha were especially remarkable. This war revealed the courage and tirelessness of the Russian troops (winter crossing through the Balkans). It ended in 1878. The Treaty of San Stefano, which ensured the independence of Serbia and Montenegro and established the Bulgarian Principality. The Treaty of San Stefano was slightly modified at the Berlin Congress that same year. The emperor's reign was marked by a number of “great reforms” that significantly moved Russian life forward. Of these transformations, the most important: the liberation of the peasants in 1861 and the publication of the “regulations on the structure of the peasants”, the granting of a public, fair, speedy, merciful and dear court to subjects in 1864, zemstvo and city self-government, the publication in 1874 of the charter on military conscription, mandatory for all classes of the state, the establishment of Novorossiysk universities in Odessa and Warsaw, the founding of philological institutes in St. Petersburg and Nizhyn “there used to be a legal lyceum here” and teachers’ seminaries and institutes, the opening of women’s gymnasiums and pro-gymnasiums, and the improvement of communications. Alexander II died on March 1, 1881 at the hands of assassins. The name “liberator” remains in his descendants.
Emperor Alexander - III (1881-1894)
Experienced in state affairs, already upon his accession to the throne, Emperor Alexander III showed a lot of firmness and self-control in governing the state. Emperor Alexander III cared a lot about the needs of the peasant class: He gave it new power in the person of “zemstvo chiefs”, established parochial schools, and in the interests of improving the national economy, the Ministry of Agriculture was established. The construction of new railways, of which the most remarkable are the Siberian and Central Asian, contributed to the rise of Russian trade and industry. Energetically concerned about strengthening Russia's military position and for this purpose strengthening the Russian border both from land and from sea, the emperor adhered to a wise policy of non-interference in European affairs. In 1892, Emperor Alexander III entered into friendly relations with France, which was marked for the first time by the arrival of the French squadron in Kronstadt. The Emperor, after a serious illness, died in Livadia on October 20, 1894. The voice of the people gave him the nickname "king-peacemaker."
Sovereign Emperor Nikolai Alexandrovich
The now safely reigning Emperor Nikolai Alexandrovich, the eldest son of the deceased Emperor Alexander III, with his peace-loving policies and cordial responsiveness, immediately attracted the hearts of both his loyal subjects and the people of the whole world. Remaining faithful to the state traditions of his sovereign father, Emperor Nikolai Alexandrovich, in constant concern for the people's welfare, expressed his love not only for his subjects, but also for humanity in general, in a number of manifestos. In this case, the imperial manifesto of August 12, 1898, with its proposal to the powers for general disarmament, is remarkable. A conference of representatives of the powers, convened in The Hague to discuss this proposal, developed a number of measures aimed at preventing a bloody clash of peoples.
General characteristics of the 11th century
The grandiose movement of Russia to the east, the protection of peace to the west and south, “great reforms”, the widespread development of education. Russian literature and art in general, imbued with a high humane feeling and bright faith in the future of the Russian people, are the subject of our pride and European surprise. Goncharov, Turgenev, Dostoevsky, L. Tolstoy, our artists are no less famous in Europe than here.
