Activities of the princes of Kievan Rus table. Rulers of Russia in chronological order from Rurik to the decline of the Grand Duchy of Kyiv

The first prince of Rus' was Oleg. He established trade relations with Byzantium and captured the trade route “Their Varangians to the Greeks.” In 907 and 911 he made 2 campaigns against the Byzantines, the result of which was a trade agreement beneficial for Russian merchants.

In 912 he dies and Igor begins to rule. First of all, he subjugated the Drevlyans. Later, in 941 and 944, he made 2 campaigns against Byzantium, the first was not successful, and during the second a trade agreement was concluded with Byzantium. In 945, the prince was killed by the Drevlyans. Igor twice tried to collect tribute from them, for which he paid. His wife Olga and young son Svyatoslav remain in Kyiv. From 945 to 957 Olga ruled, taking regency over her son. She cruelly took revenge on the Drevlyans for the death of her husband. After this, the princess precisely established the amount of tribute, determined the places for collecting tribute - churchyards. She also changed the procedure for collecting tribute, now it was collected by people specially appointed by the prince. This was the first reform in Rus'. In 957 Olga converted to Christianity in Byzantium, and upon her return she gave the reign to her son.

Svyatoslav annexed the lands of the Vyatichi to Rus', made 2 successful campaigns against the Khazars (965-969), defeating their two main cities of Semender and Sarkel. Later, the prince captured the mouth of the Kuban River and the coast of the Azov Sea. On Taman Peninsula formed a new principality - Tmutarakan. In 968, at the request of the Byzantine king, he opposed the Bulgars, captured a number of their cities, including Pereslavets. In the spring of 971 he fought with the Byzantines. The war was difficult for both sides and a peace treaty was signed. Svyatoslav returns to Kyiv, abandoning the Tbulgarian lands. While returning home in 972, Svyatoslav and his squad were killed by the Pechenegs.

The campaigns of the princes significantly expanded the territory of Rus'. They also helped establish trade with Byzantium.

2. The adoption of Christianity in Rus', reasons and significance

In 988, under Vladimir I, Christianity was adopted as the state religion. Christianity, as the chronicler says, has been widespread in Rus' since ancient times. It was preached by the Apostle Andrew the First-Called, one of Christ’s disciples. Stories about subsequent baptisms of certain groups of the population of Russia (during Askold and Dir, Cyril and Methodius, Princess Olga, etc.) show that Christianity gradually entered the life of ancient Russian society.

Historians have always faced questions: what was the reason for the Christianization of Russia and why did Prince Vladimir choose Orthodoxy? The answer to these questions should be sought both in the personality of Prince Vladimir and in the analysis of the socio-political and spiritual processes that took place at that time in Kievan Rus.

Prince Vladimir was a major statesman of his time. He had long been aware that pagan polytheism did not correspond to the political and spiritual needs of the state. In 980, Vladimir undertook the first religious reform, the essence of which was an attempt to merge the heterogeneous gods of all the tribes of Kievan Rus into a single pantheon led by the princely god Perun. However, the attempt to spread the cult of Perun everywhere failed. The pagan god was opposed by other pagan gods, who were worshiped by Slavic and non-Slavic Slavic tribes Kievan Rus. Paganism did not ensure the ethnocultural unity of all tribes and lands of Kievan Rus. Historical practice has shown that this unity is best ensured by the so-called world religions: Christianity and Islam.

The Orthodox version of the adoption of Christianity claims that this event was preceded by the procedure of “choosing faiths.” According to its geopolitical position, Kievan Rus was in close contact with the Khazar Kaganate, in which Judaism dominated, the Arab-Muslim world, in which Islam was practiced, Orthodox Byzantium and the Catholic states of Western Europe. Vladimir allegedly sent his ambassadors to all these regions to determine the best faith. Having completed the task of the Grand Duke, the ambassadors returned and clearly gave preference to Orthodoxy because of the beauty of its churches and the spiritual uplift that they felt in them.

However, these circumstances were not what played the main role in the adoption of Orthodoxy. The decisive factor in turning to the religious and ideological experience of Byzantium were the traditional political, economic, and cultural ties of Kievan Rus with Byzantium. In the Byzantine state system, spiritual power occupied a subordinate position to the emperor. This corresponded to the political aspirations of Prince Vladimir. Not last role Dynastic considerations also played a role. The adoption of Orthodoxy opened the way for Vladimir's marriage with the sister of the Byzantine emperor, Princess Anna - and thus further strengthened friendly relations with such an influential power as Byzantium. Friendship with Byzantium not only opened the way to the expansion of trade, economic and cultural ties, but also to some extent protected Russia from the raids of numerous nomadic tribes inhabiting the Great Steppe north of the Black Sea, which Byzantium constantly used in the fight against its northern neighbor :

And one more point played a role in choosing Orthodoxy. In Catholicism, services took place in Latin, the texts of the Bible and other liturgical books were in the same language. Orthodoxy did not bind itself to linguistic canons. Moreover, during this period, Orthodoxy was established in Slavic Bulgaria. Thus, the liturgical books and the entire ritual were linguistically related to the population of Kievan Rus. Through Bulgarian liturgical books and Bulgarian clergy, Orthodoxy began to establish itself in the spiritual life of Russian society.

Vladimir, having been baptized himself, baptized his boyars, and then the entire family. The spread of Christianity often met with resistance from the population, who revered their pagan gods. Christianity took hold slowly. On the outlying lands of Kievan Rus it was established much later than in Kyiv and Novgorod.

The adoption of Christianity in the Orthodox tradition has become one of the determining factors in our further historical development.

Christianity created a broad basis for the unification of all peoples of this society. The border between Russian and Slav, Finno-Ugric and Slav, etc. disappeared. They were all united by a common spiritual basis. Christianity gradually began to displace pagan rituals and traditions, and on this basis the humanization of society took place. A significant cultural revolution was the introduction of a unified written language. The adoption of Christianity contributed to the formation of urban culture in a predominantly agricultural country. Temple construction, bookmaking, literature, history and philosophy developed under the influence of Christians.

On the basis of Christianization, a new type of statehood is emerging in Kievan Rus, which largely takes on a Byzantine form. A close relationship is established between secular and ecclesiastical authorities, with the primacy of the first over the second. In the first half of the 11th century, the formation of church jurisdiction began. Matters concerning marriage, divorce, family, and some inheritance matters are transferred to the jurisdiction of the church. By the end of the 12th century. The church began to supervise the service of weights and measures. The church plays a significant role in international affairs related to deepening relations with Christian states and churches.

In general, thanks to the adoption of Christianity, Kievan Rus was included in the European christian world, and therefore became an equal element of the European civilizational process. However, the adoption of Christianity in the Orthodox version had its negative consequences. Orthodoxy contributed to the isolation of Rus' from Western European civilization. With the fall of Byzantium, the Russian state and the Russian Orthodox Church found themselves, in fact, isolated from the rest of the Christian world. It is this circumstance that can partly explain the refusal of Western Europe to come to the aid of Rus' in its confrontation with the infidels (Tatar-Mongols, Turks and other conquerors).

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 reached 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 everything 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 they are real exploits we will most likely never know, but Oleg was probably truly an outstanding person.

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, and 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 them main city Drevlyan, 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 later 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), defeated 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'" tells about this - the film quite truthfully conveys the reality of that era.

This contributed to the increase in the number of minor troubles within the 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 Ancient Rus' They have done many more great things.

Vladimir St. Equal to the Apostles (980-1015)

As is known, between Yaropolk, Oleg and Vladimir, who were the heirs of Svyatoslav, there was never any brotherly love. 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 of 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. At first he demolished almost everything Christian churches and churches that were built under his mother, and the small Christian community suffered constant persecution from him.

But political situation It turned out 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 - dark story. It is assumed that he took his own life. IN folk legends nicknamed "the cursed one".

Yaroslav the Wise (1019-1054)

Yaroslav quickly became an independent ruler of Kievan Rus. He was distinguished by 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 punished 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 Polovtsy 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. Managing the Veche by example Greek city-states, he generally did not look at 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. 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 that time.

Unfortunately, everything was not so smooth. Eternal problem There were both constant raids by nomads and internal strife that constantly tore the country apart, depriving 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 were severely curtailed. 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 turmoil, but the descendants of Oleg Svyatoslavovich, the “Olegovichs,” still ascend to the throne. Not for long, however.

Vsevolod II (1139-1146)

Vsevolod had good qualities as 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 his nephew cannot receive his throne.

He was in a terrible feud with Yuri Vladimirovich, the prince of the Rostov-Suzdal land. His name will not mean anything 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 squabbling 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 the 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 at 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. difficult path formation of the state.

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) - the 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 answer was a direction 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 suspended. 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. Was different 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) - younger son 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, the Old Russian state entered a period of its 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. He was married to the Byzantine princess Anna.

Svyatoslav II Yaroslavich(1027-1076) - son of Yaroslav the Wise, Prince of Chernigov (from 1054), Grand Duke Kyiv (from 1073). Together with his brother Vsevolod he defended southern borders countries 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 Kyiv (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 Kyiv (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 Russian independence 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. 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. Went to twice Golden Horde and to Mongolia.

Hello friends!

In this post we will focus on such a difficult topic as the first Kyiv princes. Today we will present 7 original historical portraits from Oleg the Prophet to Vladimir II Monomakh, all of these historical portraits were painted with the maximum score and meet all criteria for assessing work on the Unified State Exam.

You see in front of you a map of Ancient Rus', or rather the tribes that lived on their territory. You see that this is the territory of present-day Ukraine and Belarus. Ancient Rus' extended from the Carpathians in the West, to the Oka and Volga in the East and from the Baltic in the North, to the steppes of the Black Sea region in the South. Of course, Kyiv was the capital of this Old Russian state and it was there that the princes of Kyiv sat. We will begin our study of Ancient Rus' with Prince Oleg. Unfortunately, no information about this prince has been preserved, but only the legend “The Legend of Prophetic Oleg", which you all know very well. And so in 882, Oleg headed to Kyiv from Novgorod. He was a warrior of Rurik (862-882) and while Rurik’s son, Igor, was small, Oleg was his regent. And in 882, Oleg captured Kyiv, killing Askold and Dir, and from that moment his reign began.

Oleg the Prophet - Historical portrait

Lifetime:9th century – beginningX century

Reign: 882-912

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. He made Kyiv the capital of Ancient Rus', so some historians consider Oleg the founder of the Old Russian state. “Let Kyiv be the mother of Russian cities”

1.2. United the northern and southern centers Eastern Slavs, by conquering the lands of the Ulichs, Tivertsi, Radimichi, Northerners, Drevlyans, and the subjugation of cities such as Smolensk, Lyubech, Kyiv.

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. He made a successful campaign against Constantinople in 907.

2.2. He concluded peace and trade agreements with Byzantium that were beneficial for the country.

Results of activities:

During the years of his reign, Prince Oleg significantly increased the territory of Rus' and concluded the first trade agreement with Byzantium (Constantinople)

The second ruler after Oleg was Igor Stary and about his reign modern history much is unknown and we only know about the last four years of his reign in Kyiv.

Historical portrait of Igor Stary

Lifetime: end9th century –II quarter10th century

Reign: 912-945

Main activities:

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. Continued the unification of East Slavic tribes

1.2. Was governor in Kyiv during the reign of Oleg

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. Russian-Byzantine War 941-944.

2.2. War with the Pechenegs

2.3. War with the Drevlyans

2.4. Military campaign against Byzantium

Results of activities:

He extended his power to the Slavic tribes between the Dniester and Danube, concluded a military-trade agreement with Byzantium, and conquered the Drevlyans.

After the murder of Igor by the Drevlyans for excessive collection of tribute, his wife, Olga, ascended the throne.

Duchess Olga

Lifetime:II-III quarterX century.

Reign: 945-962

Main activities:

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. Strengthening the central government through reprisals against the Drevlyan tribe

1.2. She carried out the first tax reform in Rus': she introduced lessons - a fixed amount of tribute collection and graveyards - places where tribute was collected.

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. She was the first Russian princess and ruler in general to convert to Christianity.

2.2. She was able to prevent the Drevlyan dynasty of princes from reigning in Kyiv.

Results of activities:

Olga strengthened internal position young Russian state, established relations with Byzantium, increased the authority of Rus', and was able to preserve the Russian throne for her son Svyatoslav.

After Olga's death, the reign of Svyatoslav Igorevich, known for his rich foreign policy, began in Kyiv

Svyatoslav Igorevich

Life time: second half of the 10th century.

Reigned 945 - 972

Main activities:

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. He led the further strengthening of the ancient Russian state, like his predecessors.

1.2. Tried to create an empire.

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. Conducted a military campaign against Bulgaria in 967.

2.2. Defeated the Khazar Khaganate in 965.

2.3. Conducted a military campaign against Byzantium.

Results of activities:

He established diplomatic relations with many peoples of the world, strengthened the position of Rus' on the world stage, removed the threat from the Volga Bulgaria and the Khazar Khaganate, expanded the possessions of the Kyiv prince, wanted to create an empire, but his plans were not destined to come true.

After the death of Svyatoslav, Prince Yaropolk (972-980) ascended the Kiev throne, who during the 8 years of his reign made a very small contribution to the history of Ancient Rus'. After his reign, Vladimir I, popularly nicknamed the Red Sun, ascended the Kiev throne.

Vladimir I Svyatoslavovich (Saint, Red Sun) – Historical portrait

Life time: 3rd quarter of the 10th century - first half of the 11th century (~ 960-1015);
Reign: 980-1015

Main activities:
1. Domestic policy:
1.1. The final annexation of the lands of the Vyatichi, Cherven cities, as well as the lands on both sides of the Carpathians.
1.2. Pagan reform. In order to strengthen the grand-ducal power and introduce Rus' to the rest of the world, in 980 Vladimir carried out the Pagan Reform, according to which at the head of the pantheon Slavic gods was staged by Perun. After the failure of the reform, Vladimir I decided to baptize Rus' according to the Byzantine rite.
1.3. Acceptance of Christianity. After the failure of the pagan reform, under Vladimir in 988, Christianity was adopted as the state religion. The baptism of Vladimir and his entourage took place in the city of Korsun. The reason for choosing Christianity as the main religion was the marriage of Vladimir to the Byzantine princess Anna and the prevalence of this faith in Rus'.
2. Foreign policy:
2.1. Protection of the borders of Rus'. Under Vladimir, for the purpose of protection, the Unified Defense System against nomads and the Warning System were created.
2.2. The defeat of the Radimichi militia, the campaign in Volga Bulgaria, the first clash between Rus' and Poland, as well as the conquest of the Principality of Polotsk.

Activity results:
1. Domestic policy:
1.1. The unification of all the lands of the Eastern Slavs as part of Kievan Rus.
1.2. The reform streamlined the pagan pantheon. Encouraged Prince Vladimir to turn to a fundamentally new religion.
1.3. Strengthening princely power, raising the country’s authority on the world stage, borrowing Byzantine culture: fresco, architecture, icon painting, the Bible was translated into Slavic...
2. Foreign policy:
2.1. The Unified Defense System against nomads and the Alert System helped to quickly notify the center of a border crossing, and, accordingly, of an attack, which gave Rus' an advantage.
2.2. Expansion of the borders of Rus' through the active foreign policy of Prince Vladimir the Saint.

After Vladimir, Yaroslav, nicknamed the Wise, turned out to be a very noticeable ruler.

Yaroslav the Wise

Lifetime: endX – middle11th century

Reign: 1019–1054

Main activities:

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. Establishing dynastic ties with Europe and Byzantium through dynastic marriages.

1.2. Founder of written Russian legislation - “Russian Truth”

1.3. Built St. Sophia Cathedral and Golden Gate

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. Military campaigns in the Baltic states

2.2. The final defeat of the Pechenegs

2.3. Military campaign against Byzantium and Polish-Lithuanian lands

Results of activities:

During the reign of Yaroslav, Rus' reached its peak. Kyiv became one of the largest cities in Europe, the authority of Rus' increased on the world stage, and the active construction of temples and cathedrals began.

AND the last prince, whose characteristics we will give in this post, will be Vladimir II.

Vladimir Monomakh

INTime of life: second half of the 11th century - first quarter of the 12th century.

Reign: 1113-1125

Main activities:

1. Domestic policy:

1.1. Stopped the collapse of the Old Russian state. “Let everyone keep his homeland”

1.2. Nestor compiled “The Tale of Bygone Years”

1.3. Introduced the “Charter of Vladimir Monomakh”

2. Foreign policy:

2.1. Organized successful campaigns of the princes against the Polovtsians

2.2. Continued the policy of strengthening dynastic ties with Europe

Results of activities:

He was able to unite the Russian lands for a short time, became the author of “Instructions for Children”, and managed to stop the Polovtsian raids on Rus'.

© Ivan Nekrasov 2014

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The first rulers of Ancient Rus' (from the formation of the state to the period of feudal fragmentation).

The founder of the Rurik dynasty, the first ancient Russian prince.
According to the Tale of Bygone Years, he was called to reign in 862 by the Ilmen Slovenes, Chud and all of the Varangian lands.
He reigned first in Ladoga, and then in all Novgorod lands.
Before his death, he transferred power to his relative (or senior warrior) - Oleg.

The first real ruler of Ancient Rus', who united the lands of the Slavic tribes along the path “from the Varangians to the Greeks.”
In 882 he captured Kyiv and made it the capital of the ancient Russian state, killing Askold and Dir, who had previously reigned there.
He subjugated the tribes of the Drevlyans, Northerners, and Radimichi.
Strengthened the foreign policy situation. In 907 he made a successful military campaign against Constantinople, which resulted in two peace treaties beneficial for Rus' (907 and 911).

He expanded the borders of the Old Russian state, subjugating the Ulich tribe and contributing to the founding of Russian settlements on the Taman Peninsula.
He repelled the raids of the Pecheneg nomads.
Organized military campaigns against Byzantium:
1) 941 - ended in failure;
2) 944 - conclusion of a mutually beneficial agreement.
Killed by the Drevlyans while collecting tribute in 945.

The wife of Prince Igor, she ruled in Rus' during the childhood of her son Svyatoslav and during his military campaigns.
For the first time, she established a clear procedure for collecting tribute (“polyudya”) by introducing:
1) lessons in determining the exact amounts of tribute;
2) graveyards - establishing places for collecting tribute.
She visited Byzantium in 957 and converted to Christianity under the name Helen.
In 968 she led the defense of Kyiv from the Pechenegs.

Son of Prince Igor and Princess Olga.
Initiator and leader of many military campaigns:
- Defeat of the Khazar Kaganate and its capital Itil (965)
- Hiking to Danube Bulgaria. Wars with Byzantium (968 - 971)
- Military clashes with the Pechenegs (969 - 972)
- Treaty between Russia and Byzantium (971)
Killed by the Pechenegs during their return from Bulgaria in 972 on the Dnieper rapids.

In 972 - 980 The first internecine war for power takes place between the sons of Svyatoslav - Vladimir and Yaropolk. Vladimir wins and establishes himself on the Kiev throne.
980 - Vladimir carries out pagan reform. A pantheon of pagan gods is created, led by Perun. An attempt to adapt paganism to the needs of the Old Russian state and society ended in failure.
988 - adoption of Christianity in Rus'.
(Reasons for accepting Christianity:
- the need to strengthen the power of the Kyiv prince and the need for state unification on a new spiritual basis;
- justification of social inequality;
- the need to introduce Rus' to pan-European political realities, spiritual and cultural values.
The meaning of accepting Christianity:
- strengthened the state and the power of the prince;
- increased the international authority of Rus';
- contributed to the introduction of Rus' to Byzantine culture.)
Under Vladimir, the Old Russian state was further expanded and strengthened. Vladimir finally conquered the Radimichi, made successful campaigns against the Poles and Pechenegs, and founded new fortress-cities: Pereyaslavl, Belgorod, etc.

He established himself on the Kiev throne after long strife with Svyatopolk the Accursed (he received his nickname after the murder of his brothers Boris and Gleb, who were later canonized as saints) and Mstislav of Tmutarakan.
He contributed to the flourishing of the Old Russian state, patronized education and construction.
Contributed to the rise of the international authority of Rus'. Established broad dynastic ties with European and Byzantine courts.
Conducted military campaigns:
- to the Baltic states;
- to the Polish-Lithuanian lands;
- to Byzantium.
Finally defeated the Pechenegs.
Prince Yaroslav the Wise is the founder of written Russian legislation ("Russian Truth", "Pravda Yaroslav").

Grandson of Yaroslav the Wise, son of Prince Vsevolod the First and Maria, daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine the Ninth Monomakh. Prince of Smolensk (from 1067), Chernigov (from 1078), Pereyaslavl (from 1093), Grand Prince of Kiev (from 1113).
Prince Vladimir Monomakh - organizer of successful campaigns against the Polovtsians (1103, 1109, 1111)
He advocated the unity of Rus'. Participant in the congress of ancient Russian princes in Lyubech (1097), which discussed the harmfulness of civil strife, the principles of ownership and inheritance of princely lands.
He was called to reign in Kyiv during the popular uprising of 1113, which followed the death of Svyatopolk II. Reigned until 1125
Put into effect the "Charter of Vladimir Monomakh", where in legislative order interest on loans was limited and it was forbidden to enslave dependent people working off the debt.
Stopped the collapse of the Old Russian state. He wrote a “Teaching,” in which he condemned strife and called for the unity of the Russian land.
He continued the policy of strengthening dynastic ties with Europe. Was married to a daughter English king Harold the Second - Gita.

Son of Vladimir Monomakh. Prince of Novgorod (1088 - 1093 and 1095 - 1117), Rostov and Smolensk (1093 - 1095), Belgorod and co-ruler of Vladimir Monomakh in Kyiv (1117 - 1125). From 1125 to 1132 - autocratic ruler of Kyiv.
He continued the policy of Vladimir Monomakh and managed to preserve a unified Old Russian state.
Annexed the Principality of Polotsk to Kyiv in 1127.
Organized successful campaigns against the Polovtsians, Lithuania, and the Chernigov prince Oleg Svyatoslavovich.
After his death, almost all the principalities came out of obedience to Kyiv. Coming specific period- feudal fragmentation.