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Boris Godunov

Type Figure Region Russia Time c. 1551–1605 Also known as Boris Godunov、Boris Fyodorovich Godunov、Борис Годунов

Boris Godunov (c. 1551–1605) was the de facto regent under Feodor I, elected tsar in 1598, ending the Rurik dynasty;…

Timeline

  1. 1584–1598Moscow · RussiaAfter the death of Ivan IV, Godunov effectively controlled the government during the reign of Feodor I, sidelining the Shuisky family and installing his own clients. In 1598 Feodor died without an heir, the Rurik dynasty ended, and Godunov ascended the throne with the backing of the church and the nobility.
  2. 1601–1605Moscow · RussiaRussia suffered severe famine and plague, which the people blamed on the tsar's illegitimate origin. The great famine of 1601–1603 caused massive loss of life and deepened the crisis of rule. In April 1605 Godunov died suddenly; his son Feodor II reigned only a few months before being overthrown, and full-scale chaos erupted.

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