In this chapter you will read about the rise of Muscovy during the period of Tatar rule. Do you already know something about this period? Try to remember what you know and, as you read, consider new facts and information in that context. Specifically, consider the following questions:
Were there political, economic, or cultural advantages held by Moscow, as opposed to more prominent Russian cities of the time (Kiev, Novgorod, Suzdal’), that allowed Moscow to play a central role in the defeat of the Tatars?
What was the nature of the relationship between Moscow and the Golden Horde that may have played to Moscow’s advantage?
What were some of the strategic decisions made by Moscow’s princes that may have contributed to the rise of that princedom in this period?
