The legal status of the peasantry according to the Cathedral Code of 1649

The article considers the Conciliar Code of 1649 as an important stage in the evolution of the legal status of peasants in Russia. The main focus is on consolidating serfdom and increasing the dependence of peasants on landlords. The Code introduced an indefinite search for runaway peasants, abolished St. George's Day and clearly defined the amount of rent and corvee. This significantly limited the rights and freedoms of the peasants, increasing their exploitation and social vulnerability. The document also influenced class relations in Russia, strengthening the differences between peasants and nobles. The consequences of the adoption of the Council's Code were significant: for the peasants - increased social tension and discontent, for the landlords - strengthening of the economic and social situation. The changes caused by the Code increased the contradictions between peasants and landlords, which had a significant impact on the development of Russian society in the 17th century. The Cathedral Code became one of the central normative acts that determined the fate of the peasantry in the Russian state. The article highlights the complex nature of the impact of legal norms on the lives of peasants, including restrictions on freedom and lack of political rights.