Simeon of Russia - Definition and Overview

Simeon Ivanovich Gordyi (Семён Иванович Гордый in Russian; Gordyi means "proud") (1316 - 1353), Grand Prince of Moscow and Vladimir, oldest son of Ivan Kalita.

Simeon became the Grand Prince of Moscow in 1340 and a year later he was granted the Golden Horde's permission to rule Vladimir. His military campaign against the city of Torzhok in 1341 favored the strengthening of his princely authority over Novgorod. Ten years later, Simeon's army launched an attack against Smolensk. He continued his father's policies of supporting the Golden Horde and acting as its leading enforcer in Russia. Simeon was given more and more powers by the Khan to counter Lithuania's growing power that threatened the Mongols' dominance. Unlike most other Russian princes, Simeon remained completely loyal to the Horde.

Before his death in 1353, Simeon took monastic vows and took the name of Sozont. He and two of his sons died of pestilence. Simeon is buried in Moscow in the Church of Saint Archangel Michael.