Current Moscow Time: 09:15:4919 June 2013
The world’s biggest country, in a magazine. Since 1956.
Website: RL Online
A Taste of Russia
This is the definitive modern cookbook on Russian cuisine, layering superbly researched recipes with informative essays on the dishes' rich historical and cultural context.
Russian Federation Constitution
Complete English text of Russia's constitution, radified December 12, 1993.
Nazi - Soviet Nonaggression Pact - 1939
English text of the Nazi-Soviet Pact of August 23, 1939.
October 26, 2001 Newsletter
Debut issue of this newsletter features 'Nina Novikova, St. Petersburg Artist,' Fydor Dostoevsky; travel tips 'On Russian Roads' and more.
November 5, 2001 Newsletter
In this issue; 'The Walls Came Tumbling Down' (Nov. 9, 1989), 'Peace, Land, Bread' (Nov. 7, 1917), 'Russian Ladies in Space' and more.
Russian Folklore
Editor's choice of books about Russian folklore and folktales.
Book Picks - Former Soviet States
Editor's suggestions of books about the transition of the former Soviet States.
Book Picks - Literature
The quantity of great Russian literature titles and translations is virtually endless. Here are a few favorites from the editor.
Book Picks - Russian Orthodox Christianity
Editor's choice of books about Russian Orthodox Christianity.
November 9, 2001 Newsletter
In this issue; Shawls of Pavlovsky Posad, The Red Tsar, Fool for Christ, ABM Treaty and preparation for the Putin-Bush summit.
November 16, 2001, Newsletter
In this issue; Gift ideas, Battle of Stalingrad (Nov. 1942), Vodkaphiles and more.
Mealtime in Russia
Find out what the traditional Russian mealtime fare is.
Music During the Soviet Regime
Great composers of 20th century Russia. This feature includes four MIDI sound files of well-known works.
November 28, 2001, Newsletter
Fourth Annual Taste of Russia and Vodka Taste-off, Music during the Soviet Regime, Lacquer Miniatures, Dostoevsky and more.
Pres. Putin's Response to US ABM Withdrawal
Complete English text of President Putin's official response to the December 13, 2001, announcement of the withdrawal from the ABM Treaty by the US.
Russian Trivia Quizes
Introduction to a series of interactive quizes about Russia's history, events and people.
December 26, 2001 Newsletter
A look back at former president Yeltsin's surprise New Year's Eve resignation, Russian supersonic flight and the folkart, Golden Khokhloma.
December 12, 2001 Newsletter
Anniversary of the Russian Federation Constitution, results of the 4th Annual Vodka Taste off and more.
December 19, 2001 Newsletter
New face of international arms control, Ded Moroz and the art of Russian Lacquer miniatures.
Plight of Russia's Orphans
The statistics regarding Russia's orphaned and/or abandoned children are quite disturbing with Americans making up the majority of foreign adoptive parents. Reforms have been implemented but do little to improve living conditions in Russia's orphanages. What does the future hold for these children?
End of an Era
The presidency and life of former President Boris Yeltsin who resigned on December 31, 1999.
Lessons of October
Table of contents for complete text of Trotsky's "The Lessons of October."
January 16, 2002 Newsletter
Fabergé, Creation of the Comintern, Tea Time in Russia, Who Killed Kirov? and more.
January 2, 2002 Newsletter
Trivia quizzes, 'Lessons of October,' Khruschchev, new topical resources . . .
January 9, 2002 Newsletter
'Suppressed Testament of Lenin,' Christ the Savior Cathedral, Blini, Russian Ladies in Space . . .
January 23, 2002 Newsletter
Russia and the Olympics, Mealtime in Russia, Chekhov texts, Sex and the future of Russian society . . .
Gorbachev Turns 75
A look back at the heady Gorbachev era, a time of rationing and glasnost, perestroika and cooperatives, when everything seemed possible.
Women's Day?
A look at the origins of International Womens Day (March 8), how it was celebrated in Soviet times, and how it is changing today.
Demographic Woes
Russia's population is in steady decline. So you would think it natural that the country would welcome immigrant workers. You'd think...
Cell Phone Mania
A look at the astonishing rise in cell phone use in Russia. One report indicates that over 60% of Russians now have cell phones, versus just 25% two years ago...
The Case Against Brodsky
The secret transcript (in Russian) of Joseph Brodsky's show trial in a St. Petersburg court, at which he was sentenced to 5 years (later reduced to 18 months) of hard labor in the North. Short portions of the transcript are often cited, but this full transcript offers a vivid look at the Kafkaesque Soviet system of justice.
White Ribbon Victory
Do recent nationwide demonstrations in Russia signal a new faith in public action to foment political change?
Wine Embargo
Russia puts a cork in wine imports from Georgia and Moldova. Are the reasons political or otherwise?
Space Race II?
On the 45th anniversary of the first manned space flight, Russia lays out an ambitious space plan.
Easter Reborn
Easter survived by stealth and cunning through the Soviet era. Now it is making a triumphant comeback in Russia as the country grasps religion anew.
The Saami's Story
The Saami people (Russian population: 1,800) struggle to survive as a small national group in Russia.
Russian Spas
Russia's history of taking to the spas, in the shadow of military conflict.
Russian Spas II
Who goes to Russian spas, and why?
Russian Email Habits
Why is it that Russians don't answer email?
Vodka: The Miracle Drug
20 things you never knew you could do with vodka...
2008 Presidential Contenders
Handicapping the contenders to take over for Vladimir Putin next year.
Yeltsin's Death
A review of the life and work of Boris Yeltsin.
Voloshin Poems
Translator Constantine Rusanov has crafted thes wonderful English versions of 11 of Maximilian Voloshin's poems. They are reprinted here with permission. The copyright to the English versions remains with Mr. Rusanov. To see the English translations alongside the original Russian, download this PDF file.
Zero in Russia
In the May/June 2007 issue of Russian Life, Mikhail Ivanov's column on the use of "zero," "null," etc. in Russian slang got us wondering: just when and how was the concept and notation of zero introduced into Russian. We could find nothing in our printed references or anywhere online. So we polled some experts. Below we reprint two excellent replies we received.
BAM Veteran
Verbatim text of an online interview with Rashit Yahin. Mr. Yahin was born in 1936, was educated in Moscow as an engineer and worked from 1978 to 1990 on construction of BAM. From 1990 to 1994 he worked as head of the tourism department in the Severobaikalsk Railway Department of BAM. In December 1994, he suffered a stroke that paralyzed his right side. He now is largely confined to a wheelchair, but that has not stopped him working. He actively works to promote tourism to the Baikal region and arranges private and independent travel there (see end of article for contact info). The interview is presented in its entirely, without any redactions or corrections.
Kamchatka Disaster
A massive landslide destroys the Valley of the Geysers on June 4, 2007.
Hermitage Cats
A look at the cats that guard one of the world's great museums.
Marriage Customs
A Modern Russian Wedding: The Art of Getting Married. A look at Russian wedding traditions, past and present.
Russian Genealogy
A comprehensive guide, with loads of links, for getting started searching for your family roots.
1: 2002 Winter Olympics
Olympics news, TV schedules, events, medals and more.
1: Tunguska Event
What fell from the sky ninety years ago in a remote region of Siberia? Was it the beginning of a pattern of events leading to the doomsday prediction of the future?
1: Peace Came to Earth
This technological wonder outlived its original expectations by over 10 years and saw both near disasters and unbelievable achievements. Mir was the crown jewel of Soviet and Russian ingenuity; a bright shining star, both in the night sky and the collective pride of the Russian people. Mir's end came on March 23, 2001.
1: The Calendar Issue
A brief look at the often time confusing issue of the 'old' and 'new' calendars used by Russia and the Russian Orthodox Church. This article contains links to indepth and more technical material on the subject.
1: Photo Favorites
A gallery of my favorite photographs from St. Petersburg Times photographers Alexander Belenky and Sergey Grachev. These gentlemen have not published a picture I did not like. My favorites are those that I feel best showcase their talents and portray Russian life and culture.
1: Supressed Testament of Lenin
Complete English text of Trotsky's historic work regarding Lenin's doubts
where Stalin was concerned.
1: Byzantine Catholic Church in Russia
Examination of the history of this Christian tradition, which is in full communion with the Church of Rome.
1: Role of Women in Russian Cooking
Today, the wonderful, hearty and traditional recipes and meals of the Russian table can be attributed to the efforts of Russian women to provide sustenance and nurturing to their families.
1: Celebrating Women
International Womens' Day; Russia honors the role of all women in Russian culture.
1: Maslenitsa
Russia's week long celebration leading up to Lent. This time is characterized by merry making and the consumption of large quantities of blini.
1: Under Review
Here are links to buy books and resources that we have reviewed in the print version of Russian Life.
1: Tokyo Declaration
Document between Russia and Japan, May 5, 1986.
1: String of Pearls
Russia and Japan have yet to sign a WWII peace treaty. At the center of the dispute are four ancient volcanic islands, part of the Kuril Islands help by Russia and known to Japan as the Northern Territory.
1: Christ the Savior Cathedral & Romanov Canonization
The Russian Orthodox Church Council of Bishops voted in favor of canonization of Tsar Nicholas II and family on August 14, 2000. The ceremony was held in the newly concecrated Christ the Savior Cathedral on Aug. 20. The cornerstone of the cathedral was placed on Christmas, January 7, 1995
1: Russia and Belarus
Background and current information regarding the Russia - Belarus merger and why the former Soviet state is of importance to Russia.
1: The Witch
1: Gusev, Pt. 1
1: The Student
1: Uncle Vanya, Pt. 1
Scenes of country life in four acts.
1: Sorrow
1: The Requiem
1: The Shoemaker and the Devil, Pt. 1
1: The Privy Councillor, Pt. 1
1: Chekhov Complete On-line Texts
Complete texts, in English, of several Chekhov short stories.
1: About Love
Chekhov's short story, 'About Love.'
1: The Beauties
1: The Bet
1: In Exile
1: Small Fry
1: Gooseberries
1: Who Killed Kirov?
The circumstances and mystery surrounding the murder of revolutionary and Soviet leader, Sergei Kirov. On January 15, 1935, Grigori Zinoviev and 18 members of the "Moscow Centre" were tried in Leningrad for their part in the Dec. 1, 1934, assassination of Sergei Kirov.
1: Russia and the Olympics
Russia and the politics of the 1980 Olymics in Moscow. Also, list of Russian 2002 Olympic hopefuls by sport.
1: Sex and the Future of Russian Society
Abortion, HIV/AIDS and Russia's infant mortality rates are on the increase. At the same time, the nation's birthrate and population growth are dramatically decreasing with many children being adopted abroad.
1: All that Glitters . . . Or Something More?
Why are we so fascinated with the lavish and expensive creations of the House of Faberge?
1: After Stalingrad
By 1942, Stalin figured the strength of the Nazi army was beginning to wane and that he, finally, would have a strategic advantage. Stalin planned to liberate Leningrad and establish strongholds at Sevastopol and Kharkov.
1: Sino - Russian Relations
Historic border accords signed between Russia and China on December 9, 1999. This one of the last major official acts of then President Boris Yeltsin prior to his surprise resignation on December 31.
1: Russia's Troubled Times
Russia's turbulent Time of Trouble, period between the Rurik and Romanov Dynasties.
1: Christ the Savior Cathedral & Romanov Canonization
The Russian Orthodox Church Council of Bishops voted in favor of canonization of Tsar Nicholas II and family on August 14, 2000. The ceremony was held in the newly concecrated Christ the Savior Cathedral on Aug. 20. The cornerstone of the cathedral was placed on Christmas, January 7, 1995.
1: Blini
Traditions of this, so called, Russian pancake and several authentic recipes.
1: Kulich - Sweetbread Recipe
A sweetbread that is a Pascha (Easter) tradition.
1: Russian Pascha
Easter is the most important celebration of the Russian Orthodox Church. Find out what constitutes a traditional Pascha meal and read the Patriarch's message.
1: Russian Imperial Easter Eggs
Skilled craftsman, Carl Fabergé, and his unsurpassed eggs which were presented to the Tsar's family each Easter.
1: Supressed Testament of Lenin
Complete English text of Trotsky's historic work.
1: Leon Trotsky
Table of contents for complete text of Trotsky's "The Lessons of October."
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 1
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 1 (con't)
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 2
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 2a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 2b
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 3
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 3a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 4
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 4a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 5
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 5a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 5b
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 5c
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 6
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 6a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 6b
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 6c
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 7
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 7a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 7b
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 7c
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 8
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 8a
1: Lessons of October; Chapter 8b
1: Lessons of October; Epilogue
1: Kievan Rus' and the Church
The origin of the Rurik Dynasty and introduction of the
Orthodox Church.
1: Yeltsin's Surprise Resignation
On New Year's Eve, 1999, while many braced for a possible Y2K disaster, Boris Yeltsin resigned as president of the Russian Federation leaving a little known prime minister in charge.
1: Alexandra and the Romanovs
The last Tsarina of Russia and her role in the fall of the dynasty.
1: Death of a Dynasty
Who really killed the Romanovs? Read about the survivors of the royal household.
1: Golden Khokhloma
Unique and enchanting folk art from the region of Transvolga.
1: Origins of the Slavic Cross
The Cross is the universal symbol of Christianity, thanks to Constantine. The Slavic Cross is unique in that it has three, not one, crossbars. Learn the rich symbology of this symbol.
1: December 5, 2001 Newsletter
The Real Santa, first installment of Soviet Foreign Policy, St. Petersburg photographer Valentin Baranovsky and more.
1: 1972 ABM Treaty
English text of the 1972 Antilballistic Missile Treaty between the U.S. and Soviet Union.
1: ABM, NMD - Alphabet Soup of Defense
Do you think the Cold War was over? Existing tensions between Russia and the U.S. regarding missile defense and NATO expansion are increasing. Is it possible for both to protect their interests against perceived threats without becoming a threat to each other?(originally published Feb. 2001)
1: U.S. Withdrawal from the ABM Treaty
Russia's stance on the issue of the ABM Treaty vs. the U.S. NMD program has well understood and consistant for some time. On December 13, 2001, President Bush officially announced his nation's withdrawal from the treaty. The short and long term consequences are heavily debated and yet to be seen.
1: Post WWII Years
After the end of WWII, the Western Allies saw the Soviet Union as a serious common threat. Read about the onset of the Cold War and Stalin's death.
1: Russian Constition - Index
The complete text of the Constitution of the Russian Federation; December 12, 1993.
1: Dead Souls
The serf system in early 19th century Russia and writer, Nikolai Gogol.
1: Russian Icons
A discussion of this unique spiritual art form with many colorful examples.
1: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 1
First in a series of articles which deal with Soviet foreign policy. In Part One, we make our way through a series of treaties, pacts and secret alliances during the years leading up to WWII and Germany's attack on Russia.
1: Portraits of St. Petersburg
Thirty years ago, Valentin Baranovsky began to take pictures of both everyday life and major events in his home town. This became a unique one-man artistic project to document three decades of St.Petersburg life. The photographs, to be presented in book form and through exhibitions, date from 1970 to 2000.
1: The Real Santa
Find out how a Bishop from Turkey became the patron saint of Moscow and Santa Claus to the world.
1: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 2
This installment begins with events leading up to Barbarossa, Soviet Russia's contributions to the defeat of Hitler, the Yalta Conference and defeat of Japan.
1: Drinking in Russia
Customs and traditions regarding the consumption of water, tea and vodka.
1: Leo Tolstoy
Learn about the varied life of this Russian writer, born to nobility and author of "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina".
1: Doctor Zhivago and Khrushchev
Find out what this son of peasants turned Premier of the Soviet Union had to do with an upper class writer and his epic novel.
1: Christmastide Tradition
St. Nicholas, Babouschka, Christmas Eve festivities . . . leading to Christmas on January 7th.
1: Nazi-Soviet Pact and Barbarossa
Germany's efforts to occupy the Soviet Union during WWII and executions of thousands of Jews on Russian soil.
1: Shawls of Pavlovsky Posad
From a land not known for high fashion and which many Westerners think is filled with gray clad babushkas, the Pavlovsky Posad shawls come as quite a surprise.
1: ABM, NMD - Alphabet Soup of Defense
Do you think the Cold War was over? Existing tensions between Russia and the U.S. regarding missile defense and NATO expansion are increasing. Is it possible for both to protect their interests against perceived threats without becoming a threat to each other?(originally published Feb. 2001)
1: Jarkov Mammoth
Finding the remains of the prehistoric giant mammoth in the far reaches of northern Siberia is not an unusual occurrence. Bones and tusks reveal themselves when the permafrost thaws. However, the discovery of an intact mammoth is something for scientists to get excited about.
1: St. Basil the Blessed
St. Basil the Blessed is both a well known Moscow landmark and cherished saint. Learn about the ten pillars of the cathedral and what it means to be a 'fool for Christ.'
1: Fool for Christ
What it means to be a 'fool for Christ' and specifically the life of St. Basil.
1: Political Trade Offs
Russia deserves concessions from the US in return for its support regarding Afghanistan and other issues. Should Putin have secured this political payments up front? What, if anything, will he take home from the November summit?
1: Invasion of Russia Remembered
Sixtieth Anniversary of Operation Barbarossa; June 22, 2001.
1: Weather Across Russia
Check current conditions and forecasts for several Russian cities.
1: New Face at Russia's Helm
This article was written in early January, 2000, about Russia's new acting president and a man not well know outside Russia.
1: Russia's Military Today
Today's Russian military and the status of the ABM and START II treaties. Written in October, 1999.
1: The Walls Came Tumbling Down!
Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the beginning of Russia's transformation to democracy.
1: St. Grand Duchess Elizabeth
How did the grand-daughter of Queen Victoria and sister to the Tsarina end up a martyred nun?
1: Nina Novikova, St. Petersburg Artist
The life and works of this thirty-eight year old, single mother and wonderful artist.
1: 1972 ABM Treaty
English text of the 1972 Antilballistic Missile Treaty between the U.S. and Soviet Union.
1: Matryoshka ~ Soul of Russia
The history and traditions surrounding matryoshka; Russian nesting dolls; Russia's most sought after folkart souvenir.
1: Chechnya; Land of Conflict
Republic of Chechyna, Russia; ancient ethnic conflict in modern times.
1: Russian Orthodox Christmas
The Church's celebration of the Nativity is on January 7th; information about the Feasts of Christ's coming into the world and Scripture readings for the services and Liturgies.
1: Dagestan - Islamic Center and War Zone
Dagestan Republic, the war with Chechyna and the battle for ancient Islamic homeland.
1: Emperor of all Russia
The dramatic life and times of Tsar Nicholas I of Russia who reigned from 1826 to 1855. Nicholas I believed that he was accountable directly to God for all of his actions and answered to no man. This has become known as the Nicholas System.
1: Ancient Peoples of the Russian Steppes
Scythians, Sarmatians, Amazons; all ancient inhabitants of Russia's southern steppes. These Mesopotamic, nomadic tribes were feared warriors and accomplished horsemen who warded off the mightiest rulers including Darius and Alexander.
1: Shaman and Native Mysticism
The term Shaman is both a noun and a verb. It is from the Tungus language and is seen as saman or haman. The actions of the Shaman are, what western explorers referred to as, Shamanism. It is the oldest known demonstration of human spirituality.
1: Book Picks - Russian Orthodox Christianity
Editor's choice of books about Russian Orthodox Christianity.
1: Book Picks - Folklore
Editor's choice of books about Russian folklore and folktales.
1: Book Picks - Architecture
Editor's book choices about Russian architecture.
1: Book Picks - Government
Editor's picks of books about Russia's government.
1: Andrey Rublev
The author of the Old Testament Trinityicon; his life and other works.
1: Alexander Nevsky
Controversial actions of the Russian leader during the Mongol domination of the 13th century.
1: Peace, Land, Bread!
This was the battle cry of the 1917 October Revolution (old calendar) that would change the history of Russia and affect the entire world.
1: Plight of Russia's Orphans
The statistics regarding Russia's orphaned and/or abandoned children are quite disturbing with Americans making up the majority of foreign adoptive parents. Reforms have been implemented but do little to improve living conditions in Russia's orphanages. What does the future hold for these children?
1: Orthodox Christian Canonization
Canonization, in the Orthodox Church, is different from sainthood in the Catholic Church. Learn how and why individuals are added to the canon and the role this plays in Orthodox spirituality.
1: Russian Culture Update
Breaking news headlines from and about Russia, current events and ongoing coverage of world situations.
1: Doukhobors of Russia
The origins, persecution and emigration to Canada of the Russian religious sect known as the Doukhobors. A direct result of Nikon's reforms and resulting Church schism, learn about their beliefs and culture.
1: Emancipation Edict of Alexander II
English text of Tsar Alexander II's Emancipation Edict (March 3, 1861).
1: Freedom?
Serfs and Slaves; did Emancipation really mean freedom in Russia or the U.S.?
1: Creation of the Comintern
In 1919, after two failed Socialist Internationals, Lenin decided that there was a need for a new organization to bring solidarity among the working class; the Communist International was born.
1: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
Set against the backdrop of revolution and civil war the Avant-garde period in Russia was very dynamic. In honor of International Women's Day (March 8), we take a look at the lives and works of six very special Avant-garde artists.
1: Old Hymn, New Words
The 'old' Soviet Hymn is now the official anthem of the Russian Federation, minus the original lyrics. New lyrics have been approved by Pres. Putin; read them and listen to the Anthem here.
1: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
More images of avant-garde works
1: Nikita S. Khrushchev
The political life, attempted reforms and ultimate fall of Stalin's successor. Khruschchev is known for de-Stalinizing the Soviet Union, but, also, for the Cuban Missile Crisis and failed, near impossible reforms within his own country. Kruschchev became prime minister on March 27, 1958.
1: Independence Day
In most countries, Independence Day conjures up images of grand celebration, fireworks, family get-togethers, parades and so on. These celebrations commemorate the declaration and establishment of sovereignty by a colony or nation occupied and governed by another nation. This is not exactly the case with Russia's Independence Day.
1: August Coup Attempt - 1991
Ten years later, we take a look back at the August 19 coup attempt in Russia. Led by the Gang of Eight, men who owed their political careers to Mikhail Gorbachev, attempted establish a new dictatorship.
1: ICBM Launch Agreement
Background information and text of the 1988 treaty between the U.S. and Soviet Union regarding ICBM and SLBM launches.
1: SALT I Treaty
Notes on the details of and need for the SALT I treaty.
1: Day of Accord and Reconciliation
Celebrated on November 7, this Russian holiday used to be called Revolution Day and was the most important holiday during the Soviet Era.
1: Century of Rebellion; Years of Tsar Alexi
After the Time of Troubles and the beginning of the Romanov Dynasty (1613), Russia saw a century characterized by rebellion and war.
1: Sts. Cyril and Methodius
They were brothers who rejected their family's wealth to become known as the Apostles of the Slavs.
1: Century of Rebellion; Church Schism
The balance of Alexis' reign, the reforms and controversy of Patriarch Nikon and resulting schism within the Russian Orthodox Church.
1: Prianiki for the Holidays
Brief history of Russian prianiki (gingerbread) and a traditional recipe to enjoy during the holidays or anytime throughout the year; especially with a nice hot pot of tea!
1: Tea Time in Russia
Tea was brought to Russia in the 1600s from China. Since then, the brew and its implements have become an enduring tradition of Russian society. The tea ceremony itself bonds families and communities
1: Alexander I
and Napoleon's ill-fated trip to Russia. In the summer of 1812, Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France, and his army marched into Moscow. This resulted in one of the turning point in Tsar Alexander I's reign. Napoleon began his retreat from Moscow on November 12, 1812.
1: Book Picks - Former Soviet States
Editor's suggestions of books about the transition of the former Soviet States.
1: Book Picks - Health
Editor's choice of books concerning Russia's health.
1: Book Picks - Literature
The quantity of great Russian literature titles and translations is virtually endless. Here are a few favorites from the editor.
1: Peasants
Links to a collection of authoritative sites on peasants in Russia's history.
1: Ancient Warrior Women
Amazons, Sarmations, warrior princesses . . . just characters of Greek mythology or a reality of ancient Russian history?
1: Fyodor Dostoevsky
The tormented and, often, tragic life of Russia's great 19th century author of masterpieces such as The Brothers Karamazov and Crime and Punishment.
1: Anton Chekhov
A brief look at the life and works of Russia's famous writer and dramatist.
1: Maxim Gorky
The turbulent life of this Russian author{1868-1936}, his experience with oppression and involvement in the Russian revolution make him one of his country's most loved and important writers. Gorky was born March 28, 1868.
1: The Red Tsar
The life of the Soviet Union's infamous dictator, Joseph Stalin, who rose to power on November 12, 1927.
1: Battle of Stalingrad
One million Russia lives were lost, but, Hitler was turned back and Russia can be credited with changing the tide of WWII in Europe.
1: Ded Moroz
Ded Moroz; Grandfather Frost; is the Russian counterpart to the Western Santa Claus and other Gift Givers worldwide. He and his assistant, Snegurochka, continue to delight children and adults alike. In 2000, Santa Claus traveled to Russia to meet Ded Moroz for the first time!
1: Readings for Feast Day of St. Nicholas
Scriptures and prayers for the Orthodox Feast Day of St. Nicholas of Myra.
1: Supersonic Flight
Meet the TU-144, Russia's achievement, albeit short lived, in supersonic flight. On Dec. 31, 1968, Russia's TU-144 supersonic airliner made its first flight, several months ahead of the Anglo-French Concorde.
1: Russian Ladies in Space
Soviet cosmonauts Valentina Tereshkova and Svetlana Svitskaya made history when they were the first woman in space and first woman to walk in space, respectfully. Elena V. Kondakova represents the new age of Russian Federation cosmonauts as a member of the US/Russian STS-84 crew.
1: Amber Room
This gift from Germany to Peter I, taken away by Nazi Germany and feared to be lost forever to history has been partially reconstructed.
1: Blackbread Recipe
One version of Russian blackbread, a mainstay of the traditional diet.
1: Food and Nutrition
How does the average Russian diet size up nutritionally?
1: Women Combat Aviators of the Patriotic War
Told that the Rodina was not in so bad a shape that she needed girls to protect her, these future heroes were sent home to their mothers. Soon, they were called back and became a crucial element in the protection of their homeland and victory over Nazi Germany.
1: Great Lent
The Great Lent is the time of preparation for the feast of the Resurrection of Christ (Pascha, Easter). This is the time when, for forty days, the Church is involved in repentance, fasting, prayer and almsgiving.
2: Women Combat Aviators of the Patriotic War
2: Russian Ladies in Space
Part II of this feature takes a look at Svetlana SavitskayaElena V. Kondakova
2: Tea Time in Russia
More tea, the samovar and tea recipe.
2: August Coup Attempt - 1991
Part II - The Coup Begins
2: Independence Day
Part II of this feature
2: Nikita S. Khrushchev
Part II of this feature
2: Old Hymn, New Words
Lyrics and music of the 'new' anthem.
2: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
Part II of this feature
2: Creation of the Comintern
Part II of this feature
2: Doukhobors of Russia
Part II of this feature
2: Plight of Russia's Orphans
Part II of this article
2: Ancient Peoples of the Russian Steppes
Part II of this feature
2: Emperor of all Russia
Part II of article about Tsar Nicholas I of Russia.
2: Dagestan - Islamic Center and War Zone
Part II - Islamic rebels
2: Matryoshka ~ Soul of Russia
Part II - Sergiev Posad Matryoshka
2: 1972 ABM Treaty
Notes on the 1972 ABM Treaty.
2: Nina Novikova, St. Petersburg Artist
More about Nina's life and dreams.
2: New Face at Russia's Helm
More about Russia's acting president; January, 2000.
2: ABM, NMD - Alphabet Soup of Defense
Part II looks at the concern many have for a 'new' cold war.
2: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 2 (con't)
2: Portraits of St. Petersburg (con't)
2: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 1 (con't)
2: Russian Constitution - Pt. 1
Chapter One, Foundations of the Constitutional System; Articles 1 - 16.
2: Post WWII Years; Pt. 2
Onset of the Cold War.
2: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 2
2: Russia's Troubled Times (con't)
2: Sex and the Future of Russian Society; Pt. 2
HIV and Aids
2: Russia and the Olympics
2002 Olympic hopefuls
2: The Privy Councillor, Pt. 2
2: The Shoemaker and the Devil, Pt. 2
2: Gusev, Pt. 2
3: Gusev, Pt. 3
3: Sex and the Future of Russian Society; Pt. 3
Abortion and Adoption
3: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 3
The Testament of Lenin
3: Post WWII Years; Pt. 3
Death of Stalin.
3: Russian Consitution - Pt. 2
Chapter 2, Human Rights and Freedoms; Articles 17 - 64.
3: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 1 (con't)
3: Portraits of St. Petersburg (con't)
3: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 2 (con't)
3: ABM, NMD - Alphabet Soup of Defense
Part III - some thoughts on Russia-US relations.
3: Nina Novikova, St. Petersburg Artist
A look at some of Nina's wonderful works in oil.
3: Matryoshka ~ Soul of Russia
Part III - Today and tomorrow
3: Ancient Peoples of the Russian Steppes
Part III of this feature
3: Doukhobors of Russia
Part III of this feature
3: Creation of the Comintern
Part III of this feature
3: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
Part III of this feature
3: Nikita S. Khrushchev
Part III of this feature
3: August Coup Attempt - 1991
Part III - Aftermath
4: August Coup Attempt - 1991
Part IV - Ten Years Later
4: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
Part IV - view some of the works of these talented Russian ladies.
Art
4: Ancient Peoples of the Russian Steppes
Part IV of this feature
4: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 2 (con't)
4: Portraits of St. Petersburg (con't)
4: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 1 (con't)
4: Russian Constitution - Pt. 3
Chapter 3, Federative Structure; Articles 65 - 79.
4: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 4
On Lenin's Testament
4: Gusev, Pt. 4
5: Gusev, Pt. 5
5: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 5
School of Pure Psychology
5: Russian Constitution - Pt. 4
Chapter 4, President of the Russian Federation; Articles 80 - 93.
5: Soviet Foreign Policy - Pt. 1 (con't)
5: Portraits of St. Petersburg (con't)
5: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
More works of the lady avant-garde artists.
6: Russian Constitution - Pt. 5
Chapter 5, Federal Assembly; Articles 94 - 109.
6: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 6
Six Words
7: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 7
The Mutual Relations of Stalin and Trotsky
7: Russian Constitution - Pt. 6
Chapter 6, Government of the Russian Federation; Articles 110 - 117.
7: Russian Ladies of the Avant-garde
Final page of artwork by the Russian women of the avant-garde movement.
8: Russian Constitution - Pt. 7
Chapter 7, Judicial Branch; Articles 118 - 129.
8: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 8
Lenin's Attitude Toward Stalin
9: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 9
Sverdlov and Stalin as Types of Organizers
9: Russian Constitution - Pt. 8
Chapter 8, Local Self Government; Articles 130 - 133.
10: Russian Constitution - Pt. 9
Chapter 9, Constitutional Amendments and revisions; Articles 134 - 137.
10: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 9a
Sverdlov and Stalin as Types of Organizers (con't)
11: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 10
Disagreements Between Lenin and Stalin
11: Russian Constitution - Section 2
Concluding and transitional provisions.
12: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 11
Half Year of Sharpening Struggle
13: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 12
The Hypothesis of The "Duumvirate"
14: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 13
Radek as a Source of Information
15: Suppressed Testament of Lenin - pt. 14
The Legend of "Trotskyism"