RUSSIAN RULERS

Mikhail Romanov (reign, 1613 - 1645), Philaret's son elected by Zemski Sobor. Mikhail was hiding at the Ipatiyev Monastery at Kostroma when he was elected Tsar and was reluctant to accept the dubious distinction considering the fate of his immediate predecesors. This fine psychological study captures his sweet inocence and religious nature. He and Russia were fortunate that he had his father, Patriarch Philaret, there to conduct government affairs.