THE ROLE OF PRINCE VASYLKO ROMANOVYCH IN RELATIONS WITH THE MONGOLS DURING 1240–1246

Abstract

The life and activities of Prince Vasylko Romanovych have not yet been the subject of scientific study. This article aims to fill this gap in the prince’s biography in terms of his relations with the Mongols during 1240–1246. Research into this topic faces complex obstacles, primarily due to a lack of sources. The history of the beginning of Prince Vasylko’s relations with the Mongols can only be revealed by taking into account the general practices of the Great Mongol Empire’s relations with the rulers of the lands it had ravaged and a number of indirect data. As the main prince of the Volhynian lands, Vasylko Romanovych, like his older brother Danylo, had to submit to Khan Batu and accept investiture from him. He made this decision after the Mongol army, led by Manman and Balai, was sent to Volhynia by the khan in the spring of 1243. Prince Vasylko’s trip to the khan’s camp took place in late 1243 – early 1244. The establishment of direct relations between Prince Vasylko and Khan Batu allowed him to petition for a letter of protection for Prince Danylo, who decided to submit to the Khan’s authority in the spring of 1245 and travelled to his camp in late 1245 – early 1246. The results of the study allow us to reassess the role of Prince Vasylko Romanovych in relations with the Mongols during the wars of Burundai in 1258–1260.