Ulozheniye of 1649

Russian history

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

The Ulozheniye of 1649 was a comprehensive legal code enacted in Russia during the reign of Tsar Alexis. This code formally defined and solidified the institution of serfdom, tying peasants to the land and their landlords. It also granted certain rights to the gentry and standardized taxation for townspeople. The Ulozheniye was a significant legal development that shaped Russian society for centuries, reinforcing the social hierarchy and the obligations of the peasantry. It was formulated with the influence of Boris Ivanovich Morozov, who played a key role in the government at the time.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Boris Ivanovich Morozov
…in the formulation of the ulozheniye (code of laws) of 1649, which granted a number of rights to the gentry and equalized taxation on the townspeople. However, it also formally tied serfs to the estates on which they resided.
Read More
…in the formulation of the ulozheniye (code of laws) of 1649, which granted a number of rights to the gentry and equalized taxation on the townspeople. However, it also formally tied serfs to the estates on which they resided.
Read More

history of Europe
The peasantry
…serfdom was outlined in the Ulozhenie, the legal code of 1649, which included barschina (forced labor). One consequence was the decline of the mir, the village community, with its fellowship and practical services; another was the tightening of the ties of mutual interest that bound tsar and landowner. Poles, Germans…
Read More
…serfdom was outlined in the Ulozhenie, the legal code of 1649, which included barschina (forced labor). One consequence was the decline of the mir, the village community, with its fellowship and practical services; another was the tightening of the ties of mutual interest that bound tsar and landowner. Poles, Germans…
Read More