Sartaq Khan

Sartaq was the eldest son of Batu Khan and his designated heir.^[2] Sartaq was a Christian, but continued with shamanist practices.^[3] During Batu's reign, Sartaq was entrusted with dealing with the Russians and all Christians in his territory.^[2][4] In particular, he was responsible for making the Russian princes ratify their rule by appearing in front of the khan's court.^[5] According to the 18th-century historian Vasily Tatishchev, the prince Alexander Nevsky complained to Sartaq about his brother for "deceiving the khan, taking the grand principality from the senior prince [Aleksandr] and not paying in full the taxes and tributes to the khan", after which Alexander returned to Vladimir with the grand princely throne.^[6]

After Batu died, Sartaq was confirmed as leader by Möngke Khan.^[2] During his short reign, Sartaq ordered the construction of a Nestorian church in a new settlement he built along one of the routes in his territory.^[7] Sartaq had his own horde on the west bank of the Volga.^[8] Following Sartaq's death, he was succeeded by Ulaghchi, who was either the fourth son of Batu or Sartaq's son.^[9] Ulaghchi was confirmed by Möngke; however, as he was a child, Batu's primary wife Boraqchin served as regent for Ulaghchi, who died not long into his reign. Boraqchin was later accused of high treason by Berke and was subsequently executed.^[2]

Sartaq had six wives in total.^[10] One of his daughters was married to Gleb of Beloozero in 1257.^[11]

• List of khans of the Golden Horde
• Christianity among the Mongols