Crash Course World History: Russia

Introduction

• Host: John Green
• Focus: Russia's history, stereotypes, and its development largely influenced by the Mongols.
• Challenges in discussing Russia: complexity, language difficulty.

Kievan Rus

• Origins: Debate over whether founded by Slavic people or Vikings.
  • Slavic Theory: Migration from around the Black Sea.
  • Viking Theory: Vikings may have founded a trading outpost similar to Iceland and Greenland.
• Significance:
  • Trade was crucial, with commerce-centric wars and law codes.
  • Products: fur, wax, slaves.
  • Social status tied to agriculture and land.

Religion and Leadership

• Conversion to Christianity: Under Prince Vladimir, influenced by Byzantine Christianity.
  • Legend of rejecting Islam due to prohibition of alcohol.
• Governance: Led by the Grand Prince, a precursor model to future Russian kings.

Mongol Conquest

• Impact:
  • Conquered Kievan Rus in 1240, introducing Apanage Russia.
  • Led to political instability and economic stagnation due to competing princes.
• Mongol Rule:
  • Established Khanate of the Golden Horde.
  • Induced population migration to the northeast.
  • Mongols allowed regional autonomy in exchange for tribute.
  • Isolated Russia from European and Byzantine influences.

Rise of Moscow

• Muscovite Advantage:
  • Muscovite princes collected tribute for Mongols, enriching themselves.
  • Geographical benefits: headwaters of 4 rivers, enhancing trade.
• Power Shift:
  • Moscow became the seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
  • Moscow's military success against Mongols bolstered its status.

Ivan the Great and Ivan the Terrible

• Ivan III (The Great):
  • Asserted independence from Mongols, expanded Muscovite territory.
  • Centralized Russian state, adopting titles like "autocrat" and "czar."
• Ivan IV (The Terrible):
  • Known for brutality and autocracy.
  • Initiated purges and established secret police (Oprichniki).
  • Strengthened centralized control but through terror.

Stereotypes and Historical Context

• Russian Brutality: Stereotypes arise from both self-view and external perceptions.
• Cultural Dichotomy:
  • Russia seen as both part of Europe and distinct from it.
  • Judgement of barbarism is often mutual between cultures.

Conclusion

• Production Credits: Directed by Stan Miller, written by John Green and Raul Meyer.
• Invitation for viewer interaction and learning.