Golden Horde Soldiers, DA28 and DA29

The Battle of Kulikovo, fought on September 8 of 1380, was a pivotal moment in the history of medieval Russia and the Mongol-dominated steppe. The battle took place on the Kulikovo Field, near the intersection of the Don and Nepryadva Rivers, in present-day Tula Oblast, Russia. This clash was between the forces of the Grand Duchy of Moscow, led by Grand Prince Dmitry Donskoy, and the Golden Horde, commanded by Khan Mamai, a prominent Mongol general. This confrontation is the beginning of the end of Mongol dominance over the Russian principalities, a period known as the "Mongol Yoke."

The participants in this battle reflected the diverse ethnic and political landscape of the region. Dmitry's forces were primarily composed of East Slavic principalities, including soldiers from Moscow, Ryazan, Suzdal, Yaroslavl, and even Belozero principalities. They were united by the growing influence of Moscow and dislike of Mongol rule. On the opposing side, Mamai's army represented a coalition of Mongols, Tatars, Mordvins, and other steppe nomads. The majority of the Mongolian army led by Khan Mamai consisted of Tatars, not Mongols.

The battle itself was fierce and decisive. Dmitry's forces utilized innovative tactics, including a hidden reserve unit led by Prince Vladimir the Brave, which turned the tide of the battle at a critical moment. The victory at Kulikovo demonstrated the potential for the Russian principalities to unite against external threats and bolstered the political and spiritual authority of Moscow.

The implications of the Kulikovo Field battle were profound. Although it did not immediately free the Russian lands from Mongol control, it marked a psychological turning point. The battle symbolized the decline of Mongol influence and the rise of Moscow as the center of a future centralized Russian state. It also sowed the seeds of Russian unity and resistance, ultimately leading to the liberation of the Russian principalities in 1480 under Ivan III, also known as Ivan the great.

In this video, we will explore the genetics of two Golden Horde soldiers from the territory of modern day Kazakhstan dated to roughly the time of the Kulikovo field Battle. These soldiers could have participated in the battle under the leadership of Khan Mamai.