Problems of the Formation of the Old Russian State in the Works of D. Ya. Samokvasov

This article examines the key ideas and historical-cultural concepts set forth by the Russian historian D. Ya. Samokvasov in his research on the Old Russian State. The article covers the biography and scholarly activity of the scholar and provides a sequential analysis of his major works. The focus of this study is how D. Ya. Samokvasov considers the formation of the state in the context of historical factors, cultural interactions, and international politics. The methodology used by the scholar in his research is also highlighted, in particular, the method of historical-genetic comparisons and the method of survivals. A universal scheme of social development at the early stages of statehood is presented. The main achievements of D. Ya. Samokvasov in developing the stages of the evolution of the Old Russian State—from primary urban settlement to a union of cities, and then to the state—are disclosed. A detailed analysis is given of the scholar’s ideas about the genesis of key political and legal institutions. Samokvasov’s views on the veche (popular assembly), the institution of princely power, and the priestly authority are examined. Attention is also paid to his views on source studies, as well as the role of Old Russian chronicles in reconstructing historical events that shaped statehood. Samokvasov’s interpretation of the transformation of the princely institution after the Norman conquest is discussed, particularly its evolution into the supreme body of state power, which the scholar associated primarily with the Norman princes’ perception of Rus’as a single personal domain. The article separately describes the historian of law’s views on the role of the prince and his retinue in ensuring the unity of Rus’, and on the significance of the adoption of Christianity, which altered the understanding of the prince’s role in society. It is emphasized that D. Ya. Samokvasov not only described events and acts but also considered it important to interpret their causes and consequences, leading to a deeper understanding of the sociopolitical structure of society. The main conclusion of the article is that the works of D. Ya. Samokvasov constitute an important contribution to the study of the history of the Old Russian state and law, offering a systematic approach to analyzing state formation and its role in shaping national identity. Contextualizing the scholar’s ideas in light of modern research makes them not only relevant but also essential for understanding Russia’s historical and legal heritage.