Why was Siberia chosen as a place of exile?
Why was Siberia chosen as a place of exile? The Russian government wanted more people in Siberia to hold the territory against potential invaders, but also for economic development. Exiles were encouraged to invest in trade, build up defenses, make a footprint for government.
Why did Russia expand into Siberia?
Commerce, and particularly fur trade, was the driving force behind this expansion. By moving East along Central Eurasia, the Russians also managed to avoid the remaining, powerful steppe peoples. The highways used were the many rivers and their tributaries, allowing even further expansion to the east.
How was the conquer of Siberia?
The Russian conquest of Siberia began in July 1580 when some 540 Cossacks under Yermak Timofeyevich invaded the territory of the Voguls, subjects to Kuchum Khan, rule of the of Sibir Khanate. They were accompanied by some Lithuanian and German mercenaries and prisoners of war.
