Darren Robinson, age 11, of Reno, Nev., for his question:

WHO WAS IVAN THE TERRIBLE?

Ivan the Terrible was the first czar of Russia and he ranks next to Peter the Great as the most outstanding Russian czar. Ivan the Terrible lived from 1530 to 1584.

Russia extended into Siberia under Ivan the Terrible's rule and also the region along the Volga River was conquered. He laid the basis for Russia's growth and policies. He made Moscow the nation's capital.

Ivan was actually Ivan IV. He continued the policies of his grandfather, Ivan III, of reducing nobles, ministers, merchants and farmers to servants of the czar.

Unfortunately, Ivan had a secret police force which spread terror throughout the country. But then he did invite experts from other countries to help improve Russia craftsmanship.

In addition, Ivan started diplomatic relations and trade with the Western powers.