The Golden Horde was the westernmost successor state to the Mongol Empire, ruling over Russia, Ukraine, and parts of Central Asia.

It was established by Batu Khan, a grandson of Genghis Khan, after the Mongol conquest of the Kievan Rus' in the 1230s and 1240s.

The Golden Horde ruled the Russian principalities indirectly, a system often referred to as the 'Mongol Yoke.'

Russian princes were required to pay a heavy annual tribute ('dan') to the Mongol khans.

Princes also had to travel to the Mongol capital of Sarai to receive a patent, or 'yarlik,' which legitimized their rule.

The Mongol rule isolated Russia from Western Europe for over two centuries, affecting its cultural and political development.

The city of Moscow gradually rose to prominence, partly by acting as the Mongols' chief tribute collector for the region.

Russian resistance to Mongol rule grew over time, culminating in a major victory at the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380.

The Golden Horde's power declined due to internal divisions and external pressures from powers like Tamerlane.

The 'Mongol Yoke' officially ended in 1480 when Ivan III (the Great) of Moscow refused to pay further tribute and faced down the Horde at the Ugra River.