Explanation:

After the year 1500, the rulers of Russia were called Tsars. This term originated from the Latin word "Caesar," which was used to refer to the Roman emperors. The Russian word for Tsar is "Царь" (Tsar), which is derived from the Latin word. The title of Tsar was used to signify the supreme rulership of the Russian Empire.

Reasons for the use of the term Tsar:
1. Historical connection: By adopting the title of Tsar, the Russian rulers aimed to establish a connection to the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire, both of which had strong cultural and political influence in Eastern Europe.

2. Autocratic rule: The term Tsar was associated with absolute authority and autocratic rule. It conveyed the idea of a ruler with unlimited power and divine right to govern. This title helped the Russian rulers consolidate their authority and maintain control over a vast and diverse empire.

3. Orthodox Christianity: The Russian rulers also sought to align themselves with the Orthodox Christian tradition, which had a significant influence on the Russian culture and society. The Byzantine emperors, who were called Basileus, were seen as the protectors of Orthodox Christianity. By adopting the title of Tsar, the Russian rulers positioned themselves as the defenders of the Orthodox faith.

4. National identity: The use of the term Tsar also contributed to the development of a distinct Russian national identity. It symbolized the idea of a strong and centralized state, with the Tsar as the embodiment of Russian power and sovereignty.

Conclusion:
The term Tsar was used to refer to the rulers of Russia after the year 1500. It carried historical, cultural, and religious significance, and helped to establish the authority and identity of the Russian rulers. The title of Tsar signified absolute power, autocratic rule, and the connection to the Roman and Byzantine empires.