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Princess Olga. The reign of Svyatoslav. The Ancient Russian state in the IX-XIII centuries. Lesson 8

Olga’s Rise to Power and Retributive Justice Olga became the regent after her husband’s murder by the Drevlians, asserting her authority during a time of crisis. She exacted relentless revenge on the Drevlians by killing their envoys and laying siege to their settlements. The swift military response led to the burning of enemy cities and the imposition of heavy tributes, consolidating her power.

Olga’s Conversion and Religious Vision Olga journeyed to Byzantium where she embraced Christianity and received the new name Helena during her baptism by the patriarch. Returning to Kiev, she sought to transform her regime’s spiritual landscape by inviting missionaries. Her efforts to establish a church structure and shift religious practices clashed with entrenched pagan traditions, reflecting a pivotal cultural transition.

Svyatoslav’s Formidable Leadership and Warrior Ethos Svyatoslav emerged as a fearless warrior renowned for his distinctive features and agile battle tactics. His moderate stature, intense gaze, and noble bearing set him apart as a charismatic leader among his men. He easily mobilized a formidable force, moving with the swiftness of a leopard and pioneering a light, efficient style of warfare.

Svyatoslav’s Expansion and Fragmentation of the Realm Svyatoslav launched ambitious campaigns, striking against the Khazar strongholds and advancing south along the coast to secure access to the Black Sea. Byzantine diplomatic efforts intertwined with his military ventures, influencing conflicts with the Pechenegs and Bulgarians. In a final act of statecraft, he divided his realm among his sons, a decision that ultimately led to the fragmentation of the Rus into separate principalities.