|
Ivan IV
Tsar of Russia
(1530-84)
Other names: Ivan Vasilyevich,[J92] 'the terrible'[J92]
Titles
Grand Prince of Moscow, 1533-84†[J92]
Main Events
The first to assume the title of 'tsar',[16A] he conquered
Kazan and Astrakhan from the Tartars, and waged war against Sweden and
Poland without decisive results. Siberia was discovered and partially
subdued during his reign.[Q35C] He concluded a commercial
treaty with Queen Elizabeth, after the English had discovered (1553) the
way to Archangel by sea. In 1564 the treachery of one of his counsellors
aroused his suspicions and he began to see treachery everywhere. He embarked
on a reign of terror and was merciless to the boyars, to Moscow, Tver,
Novgorod, and other towns. Ivan died of sorrow for his son, whom
three years before he had slain in a mad fit of rage. Despite these
failings he did much for Russian culture and commerce.[16A]
Place of birth: Kolomenskoye, near Moscow[J92]
Place of death: Moscow[J92] |
