Sviatoslav Olgovich facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sviatoslav Olgovich |
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| Prince of Chernigov | |
March to Chernigov and Sviatoslav Olgovich on his deathbed, miniature from the Illustrated Chronicle of Ivan the Terrible (16th century)
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| Reign | 1154–1164 |
| Predecessor | Iziaslav Davydovich |
| Successor | Sviatoslav III of Kiev |
| Born | ? |
| Died | 14 February 1164 Chernigov |
| House | Olgovichi |
| Father | Oleg I of Chernigov |
Sviatoslav Olgovich was an important prince in the history of Kievan Rus' during the 12th century. He ruled over several cities, including Novgorod (from 1136 to 1138), Novgorod-Seversk (in 1139), Belgorod (from 1141 to 1154), and finally Chernigov (from 1154 until his death in 1164).
Sviatoslav was the son of Oleg Sviatoslavich, who was also a prince of Chernigov. His mother was the daughter of Aepa, a leader of the Cumans, a nomadic people. This connection to the Cumans was important for Sviatoslav later in his life.
Becoming a Prince
After his older brother, Vsevolod II, passed away, Sviatoslav and his brother Igor faced challenges. Another powerful prince, Iziaslav Mstislavich, took control of Kiev, the main city. Sviatoslav managed to escape, but his brother Igor was captured.
Sviatoslav went to Chernigov, but he was told to give up his city, Novgorod-Seversk, to his cousins, Iziaslav Davidovich and Vladimir Davidovich. This was a common way for princes to try and gain more land and power.
Fighting for Control
Sviatoslav did not want to give up his city. He found a strong ally in Yuri Dolgoruki, another powerful prince. He also got help from his father-in-law, Aepa Khan, the Cuman leader. With their support, Sviatoslav started a war against his cousins.
Even though he had allies, Sviatoslav was forced to retreat to a place called Karachev at one point. However, he didn't give up. On January 16, 1147, Sviatoslav fought and defeated the Davidovich brothers. This victory helped him keep his lands and power.
Sviatoslav's Family Life
Sviatoslav Olgovich was married twice. His first marriage was in 1108 to a Cuman princess, who was the daughter of Aepa Khan. This marriage strengthened his ties with the Cuman people, which was helpful for his political alliances. They had a daughter and a son named Oleg.
Later, in 1136, Sviatoslav married a second time to a woman from Novgorod. With his second wife, he had another son who became very famous: Igor Sviatoslavich. Igor is known from an old epic poem called "The Tale of Igor's Campaign."
