Today In History logo TIH
Ivan III and Akhmat Khan spent weeks in 1480 staring at each other across the Ug
1480 Event

October 8

Great Stand on the Ugra: Russia Breaks Free from the Mongol Yoke

Ivan III and Akhmat Khan spent weeks in 1480 staring at each other across the Ugra River, neither willing to attack first. The Mongols had ruled Russia for 240 years, but Ivan had stopped paying tribute. Akhmat brought his army to force payment. Both sides waited for the river to freeze solid enough for cavalry. It never did. Akhmat withdrew in November. The Mongol yoke ended not with a battle but a stalemate nobody expected to matter.

October 8, 1480

546 years ago

Key Figures & Places

What Else Happened on October 8

Talk to History

Have a conversation with historical figures who witnessed this era. Ask questions, explore perspectives, and bring history to life.

Start Talking