The Russian journey of English ambassador Sir Thomas smythe and Russia during the reign of Boris Godunov (1604–1605)

Throughout history, Russia has sought to develop relations with countries in both the East and the West due to its strategic location between the two regions. Particularly in the eyes of the West, Russia has at times been seen as "the other," while at other times it has managed to become a "beloved ally." In the 16th century, Tsarist Russia increased its influence during the reign of Ivan IV and repeatedly went to war especially with the Baltic and European countries, where it was regarded as "the other." Tsar Ivan IV, whose relations with the West weakened over time and who wanted to increase his political power, made commercial and political agreements with England, which was experiencing financial difficulties in the same period and seeking new trade routes to India and China. These agreements were carried out through the Muscovy Company established by the British in Moscow. The company's officials in Russia played important roles in the negotiations between the Tsar and the British King or Queen and carried out British embassy activities. During the reign of Fedor Ivanovich, who succeeded Ivan IV, Boris Godunov, who became the de facto ruler of the country with the title of "Pravitel", closely monitored the activities of the company and took care to maintain close relations with British merchants. One of the main goals of Boris, who ascended to the throne after Fedor's death, was to maintain relations with Britain and to gain political and economic benefits from this connection. Thomas Smythe was born into an English noble and merchant family. With the education he received and the activities he carried out, he attracted the attention of the court during the reign of Elizabeth I and was awarded the title of "Sir" during the reign of King James I. A successful merchant, Smythe was appointed by the king as the manager of the Muscovy Company. In 1604, at a time when Russia was going through a period of turmoil, he was appointed as the ambassador between England and Tsarist Russia. As part of this mission, he held meetings with Boris Godunov and Fedor Godunov and witnessed the end of the Godunov Dynasty and the accession of Dimitri the Liar to the throne. During his stay in Russia, Smythe observed the internal turmoil and political situation of the country, and his travel was published in 1605, the year he returned to England. This travelogue, written by an anonymous author, is an important source in terms of shedding light on the Period of Confusion, one of the most open periods of Tsarist Russia to speculation, as well as reflecting the perspective of England-Russia relations and Tsar Boris Godunov during this period.