Ivan The Terrible Conquerors History Series (DVD)

Ivan the Terrible's life and reign transformed Russia from a medieval state into an empire, marked by early progressive reforms followed by severe tyranny and paranoia. Early Life and Rise to Power Orphaned young: His father died when he was three, and his mother passed away when he was eight. Crowned Tsar: In 1547, he formally crowned himself the first "Tsar of All Russia". Territorial growth: He successfully conquered the Khanates of Kazan and Astrakhan, expanding Muscovy's borders. The Reign of Terror Paranoia and policing: Following personal tragedies and betrayals, he created the oprichnina, an early form of state secret police. Massacres: He ordered the brutal Sack of Novgorod in 1570 due to suspicions of treason. Family tragedy: In a fit of rage in 1581, he struck and killed his own son and heir, Tsarevich Ivan.