Kievan Rus | History, Medieval State, Europe, Culture & Facts

During the Middle Ages, the Kievan Rus was a significant empire centred on Kiev. Both Russia and the Ukraine benefited from it as their starting point and foundation. The Ukrainian capital of today is Kiev.

History

Originally from Sweden, the Vikings who became the people of Rus moved to Eastern Europe in the eighth century. Under the leadership of King Rurik, they founded a little kingdom. For the following 900 years, the Rurik Dynasty would rule the Rus.

Establishment of the Kievan State

From Novgorod to Kiev, the Rus capital was relocated by King Oleg in 880. The Kievan Rus had its beginnings in this. Oleg the Great led the Rus in numerous conquests, including expeditions against Constantinople and Byzantium. The Kievan Rus eventually prospered when Oleg made peace with the Byzantine Empire.

A golden era

Vladimir the Great’s tenure in 980 marked the start of the Kievan Rus’ Golden Age, which lasted until Yaroslav the Wise’s time in power. The kingdom enjoyed peace, prosperity, and economic expansion during this time.

Vladimir the Great

From 980 to 1015, Vladimir the Great governed Kievan Rus. He consolidated several Slavic states under his power as he continued the Kievan Rus’s territorial expansion. Additionally, he won over the Rus to Christianity. His relationship with Constantinople and the leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church was enhanced by this conversion.

Yaroslav the Wise

Yaroslav the Wise succeeded his father Vladimir the Great as king after his death. During his rule, the Kievan Rus attained their pinnacle. Yaroslav married many of his daughters and sons to the neighbours in an effort to uphold peace and foster trade. Additionally, he created a written legal system, constructed a library in Kiev, and encouraged education among his populace.

Decline

After Yaroslav the Wise’s passing, the Kievan Rus started to deteriorate. The united Kievan Rus was destroyed by the Mongol invasion in the thirteenth century.

Interesting information regarding Kievan Rus

Furs and honey were a couple of the Kievan Rus’ top exports.

Before adopting to Christianity, Vladimir the Great investigated a number of different faiths. Because they were prohibited from drinking wine, he didn’t think the populace would accept Islam.

The Russkaya Pravda—which translates to “justice of Rus”—was the name of the legal code adopted by Kievan Rus. It was based on the Byzantine Justinian Code.

They had a sophisticated culture, and many individuals could read and write.

The Kievan Rus was the largest state in terms of land area in Europe at its height.

The Grand Prince of Kiev or the Grand Duke of Kiev was the ruler of the Kievan Rus.