Battle of Molodi
Molodi, Moscow Oblast, Russia
What happened
Russian and Cossack forces under Mikhail Vorotynsky and Dmitry Khvorostinin fought the Crimean Khanate's army under Devlet I Giray. The year before, Crimean raiders had burned Moscow. In 1572 they crossed the Oka River again, but the Russians had prepared. In several days of fighting near Molodi, Khvorostinin used mobile field fortifications called gulyay-gorod to get behind the Crimean army, and it was driven back.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It stopped the invasion and saved Moscow from another attack. It is seen as one of the key battles of Ivan the Terrible's reign.
What came next
Vorotynsky presented Ivan IV with trophies taken from Devlet Giray, who escaped leaving his tent and banner behind.
Did you know?
The Tatars' famous archery was of little use, because most of the fighting was close-up with swords and spears.
Timeline
- 1571Crimean raiders burn Moscow.
- 26 July 1572The Crimean army crosses the Oka River.