Russia and the Eurasian Republics

The region of Russia and the Eurasian republics stretch nearly halfway around the world. West of Urals lies the fertile Northern European Plain. East of the Urals lies Siberia, which means “sleeping land”. In the southern part of the region the Caucasus make the border between Russia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.

The Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan have some of the highest peaks in the world. The Tian Shan range in Kyrgyzstan have some of the largest glaciers

The Economy For many years, Russia and the Eurasian republic made up the Soviet Union. The economy was planned and run by the Communist leaders. Wheat and other crops were grown on huge government run farms. Top priority was given to heavy industry (machinery and military equipment).

The People About 220 million people live in this region. Russia alone has approx 145 million. More than 100 ethnic groups live here. Most are descendents of Slavic people. They speak Russian and practice the Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

The Arts The arts of this region include architecture, painting, music, and dance. Each republic has it’s own rich heritage. Peter Tchaikovsky is a famous Russian classical composer.