The article discusses the main subjects of the formation of a unified ancient Russian state at the end of the 13th - beginning of the 14th centuries and analyzes the key factors that influenced this process. Special attention is paid to the description of the methods and tools used by ancient Russian governors in creating a unified state. The topic is relevant due to the current public and state demand for the search for new effective methods and models of governance that can be used in modern realities to build a unified and strong Russian state capable of pursuing a consistent and independent policy aimed at protection of national interests.