Sophia Alekseyevna

Sophia Alekseyevna became regent for her younger brothers Ivan V and Peter I after the Moscow Uprising of 1682. She ruled Russia for seven years, becoming the first woman to effectively govern the country since the 16th century, with the support of the streltsy and Prince Golitsyn.

Sophia's government signed the Treaty of Perpetual Peace with the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, confirming Russian control over left-bank Ukraine, Kiev, and Zaporizhia. The treaty also committed Russia to join the Holy League against the Ottoman Empire, shifting Russian foreign policy.

Sophia ordered two military campaigns against the Crimean Khanate, led by Prince Vasily Golitsyn. Both campaigns failed due to logistical problems and scorched-earth tactics, with the Russian army retreating without engaging the main Tatar forces, damaging Sophia's prestige.

Sophia was overthrown by Peter I, who had come of age and gathered support from loyal troops. She was forced to retire to the Novodevichy Convent in Moscow, where she was kept under guard until her death in 1704, ending her regency and political influence.