drevnie

Drevnie is a term used in Russian to refer to ancient times, typically before the Middle Ages. The concept of drevnie encompasses various historical periods, including the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and the classical antiquity of ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In Russian history, the term is often used to describe the pre-Christian era, a time marked by the dominance of pagan religions and the absence of centralized states.

The drevnie period in Russia is often associated with the early Slavic tribes, who migrated to the region from the east and south during the Migration Period. These tribes, such as the Krivichi, Drevlyane, and Radimichi, established various small states and chiefdoms in the territory that is now modern Russia. The drevnie period is also characterized by the establishment of the Kievan Rus', a medieval East Slavic state that emerged in the 9th century and played a significant role in the development of Russian culture and politics.

The drevnie period in Russia is marked by the absence of written records, as the early Slavs did not have a standardized written language. Instead, their history is preserved through archaeological findings, oral traditions, and the works of Byzantine chroniclers. The drevnie period is considered a formative time in Russian history, shaping the cultural, linguistic, and political foundations of the Russian state.