Kievan Rus, Mongol Rule, and the Black Death: Medieval Russia and Europe

What major religion did Kievan Rus convert to?

Orthodoxy

What was the significance of Prince Vladimir's conversion to Eastern Orthodoxy in 988?

It sought a connection to the Byzantine Empire for trade and aimed to unify his people.

How did Prince Vladimir's conversion affect Russia's relationship with other religions?

It separated Russia from Islam and the Roman Catholic West.

What was the Mongol Yoke?

The period when the Mongols ruled Russia, requiring tribute and increasing trade and serfdom.

How long did the Mongol Yoke last?

240 years

What was one consequence of the Mongol rule on Russian society?

Russia was cut off from Western Europe.

Who was Ivan III and what was his role in Russian history?

Ivan III, known as 'The Great', defeated the Golden Horde and centralized power in Moscow.

What was Ivan IV known for during his reign?

He continued to centralize power, strengthened serfdom, and became violent and paranoid.

What period followed Ivan IV's reign and what was it characterized by?

The Time of Troubles, marked by power struggles over the throne.

Who took over as tsar in 1613, ending the Time of Troubles?

Mikhail Romanov

What role did the Mongols play in the spread of the Black Death?

They facilitated the spread through invasions and trade along the Silk Road.

What was the Danse Macabre and its significance?

An artistic depiction of death, used by the Church to instill fear and encourage conversion.

How did the Black Death affect Jewish populations compared to others?

Jewish populations remained relatively unaffected due to high cleanliness standards and dietary restrictions.

What were the Flagellanti and their beliefs during the plague?

They believed the plague was a punishment from God and inflicted self-punishment as repentance.

What were pogroms, and who were they directed against during the plague?

Violent attacks against Jews, who were accused of causing the plague.

What percentage of the population died due to the Black Death?

30% to 60%

What were some political effects of the Black Death?

Local noble families were wiped out, and the Hundred Years' War was suspended due to soldier deaths.

How did the Black Death disrupt the economy?

It caused labor shortages, halted construction projects, and led to abandoned villages.

What cultural effect did the Black Death have on people's faith in the Church?

There was a loss of faith as remedies provided by the Church failed, leading people to seek scientific answers.

How did life change for peasants after the Black Death?

Life improved due to higher demand for labor and increased wages.