Ivan the Great (Tsar Ivan III)

Ivan the Great, also known as Tsar Ivan III, was a Russian ruler who reigned from 1462 to 1505. He notably expanded and unified much of the Russian land, ending the dominance of the Mongol Golden Horde over Moscow. Ivan centralized power, strengthened the autocratic monarchy, and adopted the title of Tsar, symbolizing authority akin to that of the Roman and Byzantine emperors. His leadership laid the foundation for a unified Russian state and increased Russia’s influence, earning him the nickname "Ivan the Great" for his significant contributions to the nation’s territorial and political consolidation.