Political Influence

Ivan IV had many aims, and a key to these aims was a strong central government. Ivan followed in his father's path by bringing new lands under Muscovite control. Also, he created a strong military, which contained a regular force of paid soldiers. With his army, Ivan defeated the Khanatesto the east. When they conquered Kazan and Astrakhan, Russia recieved control over the Volga region. The state gained easy access to the Caspian Sea and important connections with Persia, China, and India.