Russia, the Kievan Rus, and the Mongols: Crash Course World History #20

Summary

In this episode of Crash Course World History, John Green explores the complex history of Russia, from the Kievan Rus to the Mongol conquests and the rise of Moscow. He discusses the impact of Mongol rule on Russian society, the shift of population towards the northeast, and the significance of Moscow's strategic location and the Eastern Orthodox Church. Green also covers the reigns of Ivan III and Ivan IV, highlighting the transition from princely power to absolute rule and the establishment of the tsarist autocracy that would shape Russia's future.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video discusses the historical development of Russia, focusing on the Kievan Rus, Mongol influence, and the rise of Moscow.
• 🏰 Kievan Rus was a powerful city-state where trade was crucial, and the ruler was known as the Grand Prince, setting a precedent for future Russian rulers.
• 🌐 The Mongol conquest, or the period of Appanage Russia, led to a population shift towards the Northeast and contributed to Moscow's rise to prominence.
• 👑 Ivan Kalita, also known as 'Johnny Moneybags,' was a Muscovite prince who expanded Moscow's influence through strategic financial maneuvers.
• ⛪ Moscow became the seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church in 1325, further solidifying its importance in Russian history.
• 🛡️ Ivan III, or Ivan the Great, declared himself sovereign of all Russians, ending the Mongol tribute and centralizing power, laying the foundation for the Russian state.
• 👑 Ivan IV, or Ivan the Terrible, marked the transition from princely rule to autocracy, introducing secret police and terror tactics to consolidate power.
• 🔪 Ivan the Terrible's reign was characterized by brutal purges and the destruction of towns, setting a precedent for authoritarian rule in Russia.
• 🌍 Western Europe viewed Russia as both European and 'Other,' contributing to enduring stereotypes about Russian brutality and barbarism.
• 📽️ The video script is from Crash Course World History, aiming to provide an educational and entertaining overview of Russia's historical development.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Mongol conquest in shaping Russia's history?

The Mongol conquest, also known as the period of Appanage Russia, led to a population shift away from the South towards the Northeast. It also helped propel Moscow to prominence, created the idea of Russia, and set the stage for the rise of the Muscovite princes.

How did the Kievan Rus' trade activities influence its society and economy?

Trade was hugely important to Kievan Rus, with almost all of their wars ending with trade concession treaties. Their law codes were unusually devoted to commerce, and they traded raw materials like fur, wax, and slaves, which significantly influenced their society and economy.

What role did the Mongols play in the rise of Moscow as a significant power?

The Mongols named Muscovite princes as The Grand Prince and allowed them to collect tribute on behalf of the Khan, which enriched Moscow. Additionally, Moscow's strategic location at the headwaters of four rivers made it well-positioned for trade, and its relative safety from Mongol attacks attracted many people, including the church, further strengthening its position.

Why did the early grand princes of Kiev choose to convert to Byzantine Christianity?

According to legend, Prince Vladimir chose to convert the Rus to Byzantine Christianity in the 11th century, purportedly because of Islam's prohibition on alcohol, which he famously stated was the joy of the Russian people.

How did Ivan III contribute to the centralization of power in Russia?

Ivan III asserted Russian independence from the Mongols, stopped paying tribute, and expanded Muscovite power by purchasing, negotiating for, or conquering multiple appanages. He declared himself sovereign of all Russians and took the titles of autocrat and tsar, creating the first centralized Russian state.

What historical figure is known for his innovative leadership but also for his brutal methods, earning him the nickname 'the Terrible'?

Ivan IV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, is known for his innovative leadership early in his reign, such as working with the Chosen Council and reforming the army. However, he later earned his nickname by setting out to break the power of the nobility, creating the oprichniki, a corps of secret police, and leading a reign of terror and destruction.

What was the impact of the Mongol rule on the Russian identity?

Mongol rule isolated Russia from the Byzantines and Europe, leaving it not fully Byzantine, European, or Mongol. This period helped to solidify the idea of a distinct Russian identity, separate from these influences.

How did the Mongols' approach to ruling Russia differ from what might be expected of conquerors?

The Mongols were comparatively light rulers, happy to live in their yurts and collect tribute from the Russian princes. They allowed the princes a degree of autonomy in exchange for recognizing the Mongol khans as their rulers.

What was the significance of the battle of Kulikovo Field in Russian history?

The battle of Kulikovo Field, where Prince Dmitry Donskoy inflicted the first major defeat on the Mongols in Russia, showed that the Mongols were not invincible and helped strengthen the idea of a unified Russia.

How did the Kievan Rus' social structure relate to land and agriculture?

In the Kievan Rus, relationships to the land determined social status and tax burden. Peasants who fell into tax debt could become bonded to the land they farmed for life, reflecting a slave-like dynamic in the social organization.