At the same time, and in a similar manner, the Lithuanian Princes to the westward united various small principalities and formed a large independent State.

Thus Novgorod found itself in a critical position.

Under a strong Government it might have held its own against these rivals and successfully maintained its independence, but its strength was already undermined by internal dissensions.

Political liberty had led to anarchy.

Again and again on that great open space where the national monument now stands, and in the market-place on the other side of the river, scenes of disorder and bloodshed took place, and more than once on the bridge battles were fought by contending factions.