Oprichnina | 3 Minute History

Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, became the first czar of Russia at 16. His reign was marked by distrust of the nobility, significant reforms, and territorial expansion. He established a new code of laws and a standing army, but his paranoia led to brutal actions against perceived traitors. The Livonian War and internal strife weakened Russia, and his later years saw the end of the Aprechnina and a temporary abdication. Ivan's actions set the stage for the Times of Trouble after his death.

How did the sack of Novgorod affect the city and its status in Russia?

What were the consequences of Ivan's abdication in favor of Simeon Begbula Tovich?