Period of statehood (879-1360)

The Kyivan State proper was established by prince Olekh in 879.He conducted military expeditions to the shores of Caspian Sea and raided Byzantine cities.He died during a battle with Derevlans in 945.His wife Olha revenged his death by brutal suppression of Derevlans.In 964 she became a Christian and established her son Svyatoslav on throne.He divided his state between his sons, then continued with his expeditions and battles.Force was often used against those who resisted.In 1097 all princes agreed to stop fighting between themselves.The Ukrainian princes continued to struggle on against Polovtsi.Prince Roman ruled there in 1199.