Ivan II Krasny

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Ivan II Ivanovich Krasny (The Red, 30.03.1326–13.11.1359) – Prince of Zvenigorod (until 1354), Muscovy, and Grand Prince of Vladimir (1353–1359), Prince of Novgorod (1355–1359).

Son of Ivan I. By will of Ivan Kalita Ivan II got 23 towns and settlements, Zvenigorod and Ruza being main among them. After the death of his brother Semion, a rival of Ivan for the throne of the Great Principality of Vladimir appeared – Prince Konstantin Vasilyevich of Suzdal, who was supported by the Novgorodians. However, their efforts were futile: the Khan gave the patent for the throne to Ivan. The rival could not reconcile with this for a long time, and only in 1354, before his death, Konstantin acknowledged Ivan. According to a chronicler, Ivan was a meek, easy-tempered, and benign prince. Actually, Metropolitan Alexius ruled the country.

Buried at the Archangel Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin.

Portrait (imaginary) of Ivan II Krasny