The History of Moscow

Moscow was first mentioned in the record dated back to the year 1147. At that time it was a small frontier post. The history of Moscow is inseparably connected with the history of Russia. In 1273 Moscow fell under the yoke of the Tatars. And it was Moscow Prince Dmitry Donskoy who led the Russian troops to a decisive victory over the invaders in the battle of Kulikovo field in 1380.

By the 15^th century Moscow turned into a wealthy city. It was under Ivan III that Moscow became the capital of the state of Moscow. At that time the Kremlin was rebuilt and the largest Kremlin Cathedrals were erected.

During the Troubled Times Moscow was occupied by the Polish invaders. The fight to set Moscow free was identified in the people’s mind with the struggle for the national independence. The Polish invaders were routed by the popular levy (народное ополчение) headed by Minin and Pozharsky.

In 1812 the Napoleonic army entered Moscow. The city was set ablaze (в огне). The army had to retreat (отступить). But that was a poor substitute (подмена) for the military triumph in Russia, so much desired by Napoleon.

Exercises

1. Find the following English expressions in the text:

приграничный пост, неразрывно связана, татаро-монгольское иго, войска, решающая победа, захватчики, богатый город, смутное время, освободить Москву, связана в умах людей, национальная независимость, были изгнаны, народное ополчение, город был в огне, отступать, плохая замена, к которой так стремился Наполеон.

2. Answer the questions. Begin with the words:

It’s like this – Это так

As I have learnt – Как я узнал

As far as I know – Насколько я знаю

1. What was Moscow in 1147? 2. What happened to Moscow in the year of 1237? 3. Who led the Russian troops in the battle of Kulikovo? 4. When did Moscow become the capital of Muscovy? 5. What do you know about the Troubled Times? 6. Who headed the popular levy? 7. When did the Napoleonic army enter Moscow?