Ivan III (Ivan the Great)

Ivan III, known as Ivan the Great, was a Grand Prince of Moscow from 1462 to 1505. He played a key role in transforming Moscow into the center of a unified Russian state by expanding its territory, reducing the influence of the Mongol rulers, and establishing a centralized government. Ivan centralized power, diminished the authority of the boyars (nobles), and adopted the title of Tsar, symbolizing his authority. His reign laid the foundation for Russia's future as a major empire, earning him a reputation as a founder of the Russian nation.