The Rus' people were a group of East Slavic tribes that emerged in the 9th century in what is now Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. They played a significant role in the formation of the early medieval state known as Kievan Rus', which became a cultural and political center in Eastern Europe. The Rus' were known for their trade routes, connecting the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. The term "Rus'" is believed to have originated from the Viking term for "rowers" or "seafarers," as the early Rus' included Norse traders and warriors. Over time, the Rus' people adopted Slavic language and customs, leading to the development of a unique cultural identity that influenced the region's history and heritage.