Russian ruler nicknamed “The Moneybag” - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

This clue is a classic example of a crossword puzzle testing specific historical trivia. It asks for the name of a Russian ruler known by a very particular epithet. While the name itself is common in crosswords, the nickname is the key piece of information that pinpoints the exact historical figure.

Clue Analysis

The clue has two main components:

"Russian ruler": This immediately brings to mind common crossword answers like TSAR, IVAN, or PETER. It sets the geographical and historical context.
"nicknamed 'The Moneybag'": This is the specific identifier. Many rulers have nicknames (like 'the Great' or 'the Terrible'), and this one points to a particular individual's reputation or story. The answer will be the regnal name and number of this ruler.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a solver might use a few different strategies:

Direct Knowledge: If you're a history buff, you might immediately recognize the nickname as belonging to Ivan I of Moscow, also known as Ivan Kalita. "Kalita" is the Russian word for a moneybag or purse.
Pattern Recognition: Experienced solvers know that "Russian ruler" clues often lead to IVAN. If you see a five-letter slot for such a clue, you might pencil in IVAN and see if the final letter, likely a Roman numeral, fits with the crossing clues. In this case, the answer is IVANI.
Using Crossings: If the historical fact is unfamiliar, relying on crossing entries is essential. Getting a few letters, such as I_A_I, would strongly suggest IVANI, which you could then confirm by looking up the historical figure to see if the nickname matches.

Background Context

The ruler in question is Ivan I of Moscow (c. 1288 - 1340), whose full name was Ivan Danilovich. He was the Grand Prince of Moscow and later the Grand Prince of Vladimir. His nickname, Kalita, literally translates to "moneybag" or "purse".

Historians have two main theories for the origin of the nickname:

It could refer to his reputation as a shrewd and wealthy ruler who efficiently collected tribute from Russian lands on behalf of the Golden Horde.
Alternatively, it could stem from his supposed generosity, as he was said to always carry a purse filled with coins to give to the poor.

Regardless of its origin, the name stuck. Ivan I's reign was significant for strengthening Moscow's position as the leading Russian principality. More information can be found on his Wikipedia page: Ivan I of Moscow.

Conclusion

This clue is a great blend of common crossword fodder (IVAN) and specific historical trivia. While it might seem obscure at first, it's a fair challenge that can be solved either through direct knowledge or by leveraging typical crossword-solving techniques like pattern recognition and using the grid's crossing answers to your advantage.

Hints

Hint 1: The answer refers to a historical Grand Prince of Moscow from the 14th century.
Hint 2: This ruler was known for his fiscal policies and for making Moscow the spiritual capital of Russia.
Hint 3: His Russian nickname, 'Kalita', translates directly to the one in the clue.
Hint 4: The name is a common one for Russian tsars, followed by a Roman numeral.

The answer is IVANI.