The Czar Name for the crossword solution is IVAN. IVAN was the first Tsar of Russia, reigning from 1547 to 1584. He was the son of Vasili III and succeeded his father as Grand Prince of Moscow in 1533. IVAN is known for his expansion of the Russian Empire, which included the conquest of the Khanates of Kazan, Astrakhan, and Siberia. He also established the first Russian feudal law code, the Sudebnik of 1550. IVAN is remembered as one of the most influential rulers in Russian history.