Crash Course World History: Russia

Introduction

• Host: John Green
• Focus on Russian history, with particular emphasis on the Mongol influence and the rise of Moscow.

Early Kievan Rus

• Before Russia, there was Kievan Rus.
• Kiev's Origins:
  • Debate over whether Slavs or Vikings founded it.
  • Trade was crucial, with wars often ending in trade agreements.
  • Economy based on agriculture and trade (including slaves).

Influence of Byzantium

• Grand Prince as ruler.
• Conversion to Byzantine Christianity under Prince Vladimir.
  • Christianity was chosen over Islam due to preference for alcohol.

Mongol Conquest

• Fall of Kievan Rus in 1240 to Mongols.
• Appanage Russia: Period of competing Russian princes.
• Mongols established the Khanate of the Golden Horde.
  • Largely hands-off rulers, collecting tribute from Russian princes.

Shift to Muscovite Power

• Moscow's Rise:
  • Mongols favored Muscovite princes, occasionally appointing them Grand Princes.
  • Allowed Moscow to collect tribute, enriching themselves.
  • Moscow became a trading hub due to its strategic location.
  • Seat of the Eastern Orthodox Church moved to Moscow in 1325.

Challenges and Independence

• Dmitry Donskoy defeated Mongols at the Battle of Kulikovo Field, weakening Mongol influence.
• Ivan III (Ivan the Great):
  • Ended tribute payments to Mongols.
  • Expanded Muscovite influence through acquisition of various territories.
  • Asserted himself as the ruler of all Russia and took the title of Tsar.

Ivan the Terrible

• Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, marked the beginning of Russian autocracy.
• Initially reformed army and governance.
• Later turned to brutality and established the Oprichniki, a secret police force.
• Used terror and purges to consolidate power, setting a precedent for future governance.

Stereotypes and Legacy

• Stereotypes of Russian brutality, yet similar practices existed in Western Europe.
• Russia as a cultural "Other," both part of Europe and distinct from it.

Conclusion

• Reflect on the dual perception of Russia in history and stereotypes.
• Credits to the production team and encouragement to engage with the content.