Final answer:
Ivan Bolotnikov was a rebel who led an uprising in early 17th century Russia to address social and economic issues and challenge the class hierarchy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ivan Bolotnikov was a rebel who led a major popular uprising during the Time of Troubles in Russia in the early 17th century. The Time of Troubles was a period of political and social chaos in the early 17th century, marked by the death of Tsar Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible) and a succession crisis. Bolotnikov led a major rebellion against the ruling government, aiming to overthrow the existing regime and take the throne for himself. However, his rebellion ultimately failed, and he was captured and executed.
He was not a pretender to the throne, nor was he a son of Boris Godunov or a Polish king. Bolotnikov's insurrection, which started in 1606 and ended in 1607, was partially based on social and economic grievances and was aimed at the noble and ruling classes that were seen as oppressors.
The rebellion was known for its anti-feudal and somewhat egalitarian overtones, and Bolotnikov sought to eliminate the existing class hierarchy and redistribute wealth, rather than getting rid of all rich people indiscriminately.