The Organization of Embassy Service in the Russian Lands in the Thirteenth through Sixteenth Centuries

Abstract

The features in the development of embassy service in the Russian lands of the thirteenth through sixteenth centuries are analyzed. In particular, the circle of people such as the baksheis, begouls, kilicheis, tolmaches, and grand-prince service Tatars (Horde, delyuis, chislyaks) involved at various times in the organization and maintenance of contacts with the Golden Horde and the states that became its heirs is considered. It is concluded that many well-known components of diplomatic service have risen from the need to maintain constant contacts between the Russian principalities and the Horde khans. The terminology denoting the circle of persons involved in this service is borrowed from the official practice of the Horde. However, on Russian soil, their duties underwent evolution over time. The appearance of yams was also considered as a necessary element to ensure uninterrupted contacts between the khan and the Russian princes. Originally created to serve ambassadors and to transport tribute to the Horde, this institution has been modified with time. Observations of the distribution geography of yams in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries make it possible to determine the earliest embassy roads to the Horde.