The once powerful principality known as Kievan Rus’ experienced a gradual but steady decline in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. It is difficult to pinpoint the exact factors that led to the collapse, but it can partially be attributed to political decentralization and foreign invasions. Prior to the fall, Kievan society was characterized by uniform religion, a common language, and a common culture which kept the diverse state somewhat unified. The declining period, known as “appanage Russia”, was typified by a spreading out of political power and territories.… Read the rest here
Tag Archives: Appanage
The Diminishing Unity of “Russian Land”
The Kievan Empire can be characterized by its strong sense of unity in religion, language, and culture. The State is very much governed by the Church which contributes to this concept of “Russian Land.” This very concept provides Russians with the unity and strength that will be tested for the next hundred years because of decentralization and conquest.
Prior to the Mongol attack on the Kievan State, Russian Appanage weakened the great strength of Russian state and cultural capitals. … Read the rest here