Ivan The Terrible
Russia’s nobility ran into some very bad trouble around the time of the Romanov dynasty toward the beginning of the last century. They were wiped out completely according to all reliable reports after a series of unfortunate situations. Their prince was sickly, their queen was involved with a man who was rumored to be a wizard but was at the very least skilled at mesmerism. They were considered to be the symbol of inequality in a country that was no longer willing to accept that. They were, however, far from the worst that the Russian nobility had ever offered to its people in terms of leadership. This essay looks into the reign of the man known as Ivan the Terrible.
Early Years
Ivan Vasiliyavech became Tsar of Russia when his father died from sepsis. He was three years old at the time so the major decisions were made for him by his mother until she passed away five years later from what many people assume to have been a murder. Late on other advisers held his responsibilities for him although he often felt like his needs were not considered in this stage of his life. At age sixteen, the full power of his rank was bestowed upon him at the age of sixteen.
Midlife Atrocities
Despite earning the nickname ‘The Terrible’ there were good sides to Ivan. He was deeply religious not for show but in truth. He was also extremely interested in the Arts and a dedicated patron. Unfortunately, he was also given to fits of sudden rages and paranoia in which nobody could be sure of their safety. In the midst of one such event he killed the man he had intended to pass his crown to. This despite having trained him for the post for a very long time and having only a highly unsuitable replacement. He also introduced serfdom, a milder form of slavery for peasants.
His Eventual Death
For a warrior he died a death that was surprisingly peaceful. In the midst of a game of chess, he had what is presumed to be a stroke and that was that. He was 53 at the time which was respectable for a man of his status in that region and era.
Men in history may not always be remembered accurately but all of those who contribute significantly are remembered in some way or another.