Ivan the Terrible ruled with fire and fear, leaving a legacy both brilliant and brutal. In Fascinating Discoveries about Ivan the Terrible, uncover astonishing facts about his reign, his reforms, and the dark legend that still surrounds him today.
Ivan the Terrible
Ivan the Terrible was crowned the first Tsar of All Russia in 1547, marking the birth of the Russian Empire.
Despite his fearsome nickname, Ivan began his reign with major legal reforms and efforts to modernize Russia.
He created the Oprichnina, a secret police force that terrorized the nobility and crushed dissent.
Ivan expanded Russian territory dramatically, conquering Kazan, Astrakhan, and Siberian lands.
He was the grandson of Ivan the Great and believed he was chosen by God to rule.
Ivan married at least seven times, though only his first wife, Anastasia Romanovna, had a calming influence on him. The Russian Orthodox Church only recognized up to four.
After Anastasia’s death, Ivan’s rule grew increasingly violent and paranoid.
Ivan the Terrible is infamous for killing his own son, Ivan Ivanovich, in a fit of rage. Some historians have questioned the accuracy of this story, suggesting it may have been exaggerated or propagandized by Ivan’s enemies.
Ivan the Terrible was highly educated, reading religious texts, history, and philosophy throughout his life.
He built the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow to celebrate his conquest of Kazan.
Ivan the Terrible sometimes dressed as a commoner and wandered Moscow to hear what people truly thought of his rule.
During his reign, Moscow grew into a powerful political and cultural center.
He tried to establish diplomatic ties with England and even proposed marriage to Queen Elizabeth I.
In his later years, Ivan suffered from painful illnesses, paranoia, and violent outbursts.
Ivan’s rule left Russia stronger territorially but deeply scarred by fear and instability.
