1. Ivan IV Jessica Rogers

2. Name Ivan IV is often called Ivan the Terrible for his cruel, strict demeanor. In Russia, he was called Ivan Grozny, which translates to frightening and formidable.

3. Early Life Ivan IV was crowned “Tsar” of all of Russia in 1547 at the age of 16. He proclaimed himself as the Tsar instead of being called the Grand Prince; this showed he was the only leader in Russia and would rule as he wanted.

4. Success Under Ivan IV’s rule, 6,000 Russians defeated 30,000 of their enemies, the Tartars, in the city of Kazan. This was a huge accomplishment for Ivan at the age of 22.

5. Accomplishments Ivan IV had an architect build Russia’s most famous church, St. Basil’s Cathedral. He brought local self-government to areas with peasants. Ivan created a standing army. He expanded Russia’s borders and improved its trading partners.

6. Legacy Ivan IV died in 1584 at the age of 54 of a natural cause. Ivan’s new and powerful, yet successful way of ruling changed Russia’s government, economy and history forever and left a precedent for future rulers.