Grand Prince of Kiev, who was a politician and militarist in ancient Russia. In 978, Vladimir the Great took his army back to Kiev, replacing his brother who had driven him out of his hometown, and became the Grand Duke of Kiev! Under the rule of Vladimir the Great, Kiev became more powerful and prosperous. Therefore, Vladimir extended the territory continuously. In 981, Vladimir seized the important towns from the Polish king, and then attacked nearby forces. In 985, he conquered the areas along the Kama River with a fleet and established many colonies. Kiev was so powerful that even the Eastern Roman Empire had to marry the princess to Vladimir for a stable alliance. Although Vladimir the Great was cold and absolute, he was the most legendary and meritorious duke of all the dukes of Kiev!