AP World Unit 3.3 (Cram)

Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, known for its vast landscapes and rich cultural history. It has a complex political structure and plays a significant role in global politics and economics, influencing both neighboring regions and international relations.

Muscovy

Muscovy refers to the Grand Principality of Moscow, a late medieval Russian monarchy that emerged as a dominant force in the region. It later became the foundation for the Tsardom of Russia, and eventually the Russian Empire. Muscovy was known for its centralized power, its capital at Moscow, and its role in resisting the Golden Horde and unifying the Russian lands.

Tsar

The term 'Tsar' refers to the emperor of Russia, derived from the Latin word 'Caesar'. Tsars held absolute power and ruled over the vast territories of Russia, which expanded significantly during their reigns.

Peter the Great

Peter the Great was the Tsar of Russia from 1682 until his death in 1725, known for his extensive reforms that aimed to modernize Russia and transform it into a major European power.

Westernization

Westernization refers to the process through which non-Western societies adopt various cultural elements, practices, and values from Western countries, particularly in areas such as technology, governance, education, and lifestyle.

Saint Petersburg

St. Petersburg is a major Russian city located on the Neva River, founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703 as the new capital of Russia.

Mongol Yoke

The term used to describe the period of Mongol domination over Russia from the 13th to the 15th century, which impacted Russian governance and society.

Third Rome

The "Third Rome" is a historical and political concept asserting that Moscow is the successor to the ancient Roman Empire, carrying on its legacy, particularly its Christian heritage

Serfdom

Serfdom was a labor system in which peasants, known as serfs, were bound to the land and under the control of a landowner.

Autocrat

An autocrat is a ruler who holds absolute power within their state, making decisions without any external checks or balances. This system is known as autocracy. Autocratic regimes often lack individual freedoms and political pluralism, and may suppress dissent and limit civil liberties.

Boyars

In the context of AP World History, "boyars" refers to the Russian aristocracy or nobility, particularly during the period of the Muscovite Empire (15th-17th centuries). They were a powerful class that held military and administrative positions, formed a closed aristocratic caste, and served as advisors to the Tsar.

Elaboration:

Siberia

Siberia refers to the vast region of northern Asia, primarily in Russia, extending from the Ural Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. It's characterized by its cold climate, vast expanses, and historical role as a site of Russian expansion and colonization.