Principality of Smolensk

The Principality of Smolensk was an old Russian principality in the upper reaches of the Dnieper with the center in Smolensk. Other important cities included Toropetz, Orsha, Mstislavl and Mozhaisk.

The principality arose in the area of ​​East Slavic tribe of the Kriwitschen during the time of Kievan Rus. His political autonomy began to form from 1030. An important source of income was the passing through Smolensk road from the Varangians to the Greeks. Under the grandson of Vladimir Monomakh Rostislav Mstislavich Smolensk became independent and reached its greatest prosperity and power. In 1136 a separate diocese was founded in Smolensk, which was later equipped with lands and privileges. Among the descendants of Roman Rostislawitsch started from 1180 in accordance with the Senioratsprinzip the splitting of the Principality and the decline of its influence on the all-Russian policy. At the same time, it experienced attacks by the Lithuanian princes, and the Teutonic Knights.

The principality was only partially drawn from the Mongolian invasion affected, the city itself was not conquered and looted. However, paid the Smolensk tribute to the Golden Horde. In the second half of the 13th century Mozhaisk and Wjasma revolted from Smolensk, which meant a further weakening in the fight against the Lithuanians. 1380 took troops from the Principality of Smolensk in part on the side of Dmitri Donskoi at the Battle of Kulikovo.

In 1404 the Lithuanian Grand Duke Vytautas Smolensk could conquer. The Principality of Smolensk lost its political independence and became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Smolensk was liberated in 1514 during the war of Russia against Lithuania. 1611, after several years of siege, Smolensk was occupied by a second time from Lithuania. During the Russo- Polish War 1654-1667 Smolensk was finally liberated by Russia, which was officially sealed in the Treaty of Andrussowo.