Why Did Russians Help Cumans Fight Against Mongols?

The relationship between the Russians and the Cumans during the period of the Mongol invasions in the 13th century was complex and influenced by a variety of political and military factors. Despite not being traditional allies, various circumstances prompted the Russians to support the Cumans in their fight against the Mongols. This article will delve into the reasons behind this alliance, including common threats, political expediency, military strategy, and cultural ties.

Common Threat: A Shared Enemy

The Mongols posed a significant threat to all the states and tribes in the region, including both the Russian principalities and the Cumans. The invasion led to widespread destruction and displacement, prompting various groups to seek temporary alliances against a common enemy. This shared threat created a strategic necessity for cooperation.

Political Alliances: Pragmatism Over Long-standing Rivalries

At times, political expediency led to alliances between former enemies. Russian princes often formed alliances with different nomadic groups, including the Cumans, to strengthen their military power against the Mongols. These alliances were pragmatic and aimed at survival rather than based on longstanding friendships. For instance, at the Battle of the Kalka River in 1223, Prince Mstislav the Daring of Halych was married to the daughter of the Cuman Khan Kten. When Kten and other Cuman Khans decided to fight the advancing Mongols, he sought help from the other important Ukrainian princes. Together, they led a coalition of lesser princes of the Southern/Western Rus to fight against the Mongols.

Military Strategy: Complementary Capabilities

The Cumans were known for their skills as horsemen and their understanding of the steppe terrain. Their knowledge could complement the military strategies of Russian princes. By collaborating, they could enhance their chances of repelling the Mongol invasions. This synergy in military tactics was a critical element in their cooperation against a common adversary.

Cultural and Ethnic Ties: Shared History and Mutual Understanding

While the Russians and Cumans were not the same people, they had interacted for centuries through trade, warfare, and diplomacy. This history could lead to a degree of mutual understanding and cooperation in times of crisis. The interactions and exchanges between these two groups fostered a level of familiarity and trust that made joint efforts more feasible.

Historical Context: Shifting Political Landscapes

The Mongol invasion began in earnest in the early 1240s, and the political landscape was rapidly changing. Many local powers were disintegrating in the face of the Mongol onslaught, leading to shifting alliances and a reevaluation of old rivalries. This dynamic environment further emphasized the importance of forming temporary alliances for mutual defense and survival.

Conclusion

While the Russians and Cumans were not traditional allies, the existential threat posed by the Mongols led to temporary alliances based on the need for mutual defense and survival. The Russo-Cuman alliance at the Battle of the Kalka River, where Prince Mstislav sought help from other Ukrainian princes, is a prime example of this cooperation. This alliance ensured the survival of the Cumans and contributed to the eventual rise of Muscovy as a major power in medieval Russia.

The Russo-Cuman alliance teaches us that in the face of overwhelming threats, alliances can form from unexpected places, driven by mutual interests and the desire to survive. Despite their different histories and cultural backgrounds, the Russians and Cumans achieved a level of cooperation that had significant consequences for their future.