Devlet I Giray, born in 1512, ascended to the throne as the Khan of Crimea in 1551, a position he held until 1577. His reign was marked by significant geopolitical events that shaped the region's history.
One of the most notable occurrences during his rule was the fall of Kazan to Russia in 1552, followed by the fall of the Astrakhan Khanate in 1556. These events signified a shift in power dynamics in Eastern Europe, with Russia expanding its influence.
In 1571, the Crimean Tatars, under Devlet's leadership, famously burned Moscow, a bold act that underscored the Khan's military ambitions. However, this was countered by a significant defeat near Moscow in 1572, which marked a turning point in his military campaigns.
Throughout his reign, Cossack raids into Crimea were a persistent challenge, reflecting the turbulent nature of the times and the ongoing conflicts that characterized the region.