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What is happening in Russia in 1453CE
The Russian principalities were devastated by a massive Mongol invasion in 1242. The city of Kiev was completely destroyed and all the principalities were incorporated into the Mongol empire, as tribute-paying vassals. Only the Republic of Novgorod was able to resist. Novgorod, with its huge hinterland, has continued to flourish by developing strong trading ties with western Europe.
In the second half of the 13th century the Mongol empire divided into several branches, with the Mongols of the western steppes becoming known as the Golden Horde. The khan of the Golden Horde continues as overlord of the Russian princes. Since the mid-14th century the princes of Muscovy have acted as intermediaries between the khan and the other princes, and by the mid-15th century they have established themselves as the effective leaders of Russia.
The Russians’ western neighbour, Poland-Lithuania, has been able to take advantage of the Russian princes’ subordination to the Golden Horde by expanding far into their territory. However, by this date the Golden Horde is in decline, with independent khanates being established in the Crimea and Kazan.
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What else is happening in the rest of the world...

France history 750CE
The Kingdom of the Franks now covers all of the old Roman region of Gaul.

Spain and Portugal history 750CE
Muslim forces from North Africa have conquered most of present-day Spain and Portugal.

Britain history 750CE
A collection of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms now covers most of present-day England, and the rest of the British Isles is home to numerous Celtic tribes and kingdoms

Italy history 750CE
In Italy, long wars have caused massive destruction, and the peninsula is now divided between the Lombards and Byzantines
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