History of Russia: Content: History of Russia The Varangians. Mongol Rule and the Rise of Moscow Tsardom, Empire, and Westernization. Imperial Russia, Revolution, and Soviet Era Post-Soviet Russia Russia Map of Russia The history of Russia is a vast and diverse narrative that spans centuries, encompassing various political, social, and cultural transformations. Here is a concise overview of key periods and events in Russian history: Early East Slavs and the Kievan Rus. East Slavic Tribes: In the early medieval period, East Slavic tribes, such as the Krivichs, Drevlians, and Radimichs, inhabited the region that would later become Russia. Early Slavs The Varangians. Scandinavian traders and warriors known as the Varangians established trade routes and settlements in the region and played a crucial role in the formation of the Kievan Rus. Kievan Rus. The Kievan Rus, a loose federation of city-states, emerged in the 9th century under the leadership of the Varangians. Kiev became the political and cultural center of the Rus, influenced by Byzantine culture and Christianity. The Kievan Rus Mongol Rule and the Rise of Moscow. Mongol Conquest: In the 13th century, Mongol forces, led by Batu Khan, invaded the Kievan Rus and established the Mongol Empire's rule, known as the Golden Horde. The Mongols imposed their authority and collected tribute from the Rus principalities. Moscow's Ascendancy. As the Mongol control weakened, the principality of Moscow gained prominence under the leadership of Ivan III (also known as Ivan the Great). Ivan III successfully resisted the Mongols and expanded Moscow's territories. Old Moscow's Tsardom, Empire, and Westernization. Ivan the Terrible: Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, became the first Tsar of Russia in the 16th century. His reign was marked