The first ruler of the Romanov dynasty in Russia was Michael I, who reigned from 1613 to 1645. His ascension marked the end of the Time of Troubles, a chaotic period filled with civil wars and foreign invasions. The Romanov dynasty stabilized Russia, expanding its territory and centralizing power. Michael's reign initiated a long era of Romanov leadership that lasted over three centuries until the abdication of Nicholas II in 1917 during the Russian Revolution.