Ivan The Terrible was also called "Tsar of All the Russias." What exactly does that nickname mean? Were there multiple countries called Russia at one point?

by temalyen

I saw this on Wikipedia and the nickname isn't really explained. Does it refer to nearby countries that have Slavs in it? I'm really curious. And, specifically, what countries made up "the Russias" that his nickname refers to?

NeverOneDropOfRain

This refers to the White, Red, and Black Ruthenias that existed after the breakup of the original realm of Rus', AKA Ruthenia.

Edit: Here is an in depth thread.