How did the Golden Horde rule the Russian principalities?

The Golden Horde maintained control over the Russian principalities primarily through a system of indirect rule focused on the collection of tribute. Rather than governing the city-states directly, the khans appointed officials known as basqaq to oversee the collection of these levies.1

Over time, the responsibility for gathering this tribute was shifted to the Russian princes themselves, most notably those of Muscovy. This arrangement significantly bolstered the political standing of Moscow; for instance, Öz Beg granted Ivan I the title of grand duke in recognition of his services as a tribute collector, which helped establish Moscow's eventual predominance in the region.12

Additionally, the Mongols practiced religious tolerance toward the Russian Orthodox Church. By granting the church various privileges and refraining from interference in religious life, the khans inadvertently allowed the church to assume a vital national function, which became a significant political factor during the period of foreign rule.1