In 1237 the Tartars came on again, led by Bati, the nephew of Oktai, one of the sons of Genghis-Khan. A Khirgiz tribe, falling back before the advancing hordes, took refuge in the land of the Bulgarians of the Volga, giving warning of the new irruption from Asia. This time it was not the South Russians who were immediately threatened by the Souzdal princes.
The Tartars swept on, overrunning the Volgas who, up to this time, had been the ancient enemies of Russia, but who now made common cause with her in ruin by the Mongol hordes. Their chief city was given up to the flames and her inhabitants were put to the sword. The invaders moved westward into the forests of the Volga and sent envoys to the Prince of Riazan.
The three Princes of Riazan and those of Pronsk, Kolomna, Moscow and Moroum advanced to meet them.
If you want peace," said the Tartars, "give us the tenth of your goods."
When we are dead," replied the Russian princes, "you can have it all."
Although abandoned by the Princes of Tchernigof and the Grand Prince George II, of whom they had implored and anticipated help, the Princes of Riazan stoutly gave battle, resolving to accept the unequal struggle. They were completely defeated, nearly all of the princes being killed on the field of Battle.
This unfortunate affair has furnished the romantic literature of Russia with many stories. It is told how Feodor preferred to die rather than see his young wife Euphrasia carried off a prisoner by Bati, and how on learning his fate, she threw herself and her son from a window. Oleg the Handsome, found still alive on the field of battle, refused the attentions of the Tartar chief and was cut to pieces.
Previous article Next article
From General Nelson A. Miles
Thrilling Stories of The Russian-Japanese War, 1904
