The medieval Russian state was left vulnerable to invasion because of fighting between noble families and because of declining trade with the fading Byzantine Empire. The Mongols easily overwhelmed the Russians. The effects of their rule were mixed: while they brought peace to Eurasia and opened up trade routes for Russian traders in this region, they also imposed cumbersome tribute payments, established a precedent of absolutist, centralized rule, and cut off contacts with Europe, slowing the spread of scientific and artistic advancements.
