| The oldest (pre-state) (until the end of the 9th century AD). Before 988, the history of Russia includes key events that predetermined the development of the ancient Russian lands and their further unification into a single state. Here are the main steps: |
Various tribes lived on the territory of modern Russia, including Scythians, Sarmatians and Finno-Ugric tribes. Trade and cultural exchange with the neighboring Greeks, Celts, and Iranian peoples developed.
Slavic tribes began to migrate to the territory of Eastern Europe. The first mentions of the Slavs in historical sources such as the Byzantine and Roman chronicles date back to this period. Gradually, the Slavs divided into western, southern and eastern Slavs, settling within the borders of modern Ukraine, Belarus and the western part of Russia.
The formation of East Slavic tribal unions, among which the Krivichi, Ilmen Slovene, Polyane, Drevlyane, and others stand out. Cities such as Novgorod, Kiev, and Smolensk became important. Active cooperation begins with the Khazars, who controlled part of the trade on the Volga.
The beginning of the reign of Rurik in Novgorod is an important stage, considered the beginning of the Ancient Russian state. According to the Tale of Bygone Years, the Varangians, led by Rurik, were invited to rule the Slavic and Finno-Ugric tribes, which marked the beginning of the Rurik dynasty.
The unification of Novgorod and Kiev by Prince Oleg is the creation of Kievan Rus. Oleg captured Kiev, made it his capital and proclaimed Kiev the "mother of Russian cities." This event marked the beginning of a unified East Slavic state, which gradually expanded its borders and influence.
Prince Oleg's campaigns against Constantinople (Constantinople). He concluded lucrative treaties with Byzantium, which helped strengthen the trade and political influence of Kievan Rus in the region.
Prince Igor, the son of Rurik, organized a new campaign against Byzantium, but was defeated. His wife, Princess Olga, subsequently carried out tax reform and tried to strengthen internal power on the lands of the Ancient Russian state.
Princess Olga converted to Christianity in Constantinople, which was an important step in the relations between Russia and Byzantium. Although there was no mass baptism of the people during her reign, her act had an impact on religious processes in the country.
The reign of Prince Vladimir Svyatoslavich. In 988, the Baptism of Rus took place, which became a turning point in the history of Ancient Russia and determined its further cultural, religious and political development. Vladimir adopted Christianity in Byzantium and made it the state religion, which helped strengthen ties with European countries and Byzantium, as well as centralized governance.