Second half of the 16th century. - an important stage in the history of the Russian state. The sharp turn from boyar rule to reforms and the oprichnina that followed were the most important milestones in the political development of that time. Having chosen the biographical genre, the author analyzes the key problems of Russian history of the 16th century and comprehensively characterizes Ivan the Terrible, one of the most controversial figures in Russian history. A talented statesman, a wise reformer - and a bloody tyrant who carried out monstrous repressions. What was he like, Ivan the Terrible, sovereign of the Muscovite kingdom? The famous historian, world-famous scientist, professor at St. Petersburg State University R. G. Skrynnikov offers answers to these questions in his fascinating book.