National Russia Day

A group of people wearing traditional Russian clothing, happily celebrating with Matryoshka dolls, borscht, and the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway in the background.. — National russia day illustration

Hey there, history buffs and party enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the exciting world of National Russia Day. Get ready to explore the magical land of Matryoshka dolls, borscht, and the famous Trans-Siberian Railway!

When is Russia Day?

It's national russia day on the 10th June.

A Brief Journey through National Russia Day

Every year on June 12th, Russia celebrates its national day with great enthusiasm and pride. This festive occasion commemorates the establishment of the Russian Federation and marks the country's independence from the Soviet Union. It's a time when people come together to honor their rich history, culture, and achievements.

On this special day, Russians engage in various activities that showcase their national identity and unity. The streets fill with lively parades, colorful costumes, and traditional music. Families and loved ones gather for grand feasts, indulging in hearty Russian dishes like pelmeni, blini, and authentic Siberian shashlik. Yum!

Sports also play a significant role in the celebrations, with people engaging in friendly soccer matches, ice hockey tournaments, and even the traditional Maslenitsa festival, which involves spirited competitions in sleigh racing and snowball fights.

But National Russia Day isn't just about exuberant festivities; it's also a time for reflection and remembrance. Russians take a moment to honor fallen heroes, pay tribute to their national icons such as Pushkin and Tolstoy, and remember their struggles and triumphs throughout history.

While National Russia Day is undoubtedly a day of national pride, it also serves as a platform for raising awareness about various issues affecting the country. From environmental conservation to promoting contemporary arts and culture, Russians strive to make a positive difference and inspire future generations.

So, whether you're contemplating a sizzling romance novel set in St. Petersburg, marveling at the majestic beauty of the Kremlin, or simply yearning for a delicious bowl of hearty borscht, National Russia Day is the perfect excuse to immerse yourself in all things Russian.

History behind the term 'Russia'

862 AD

The Birth of Russia

In the year 862 AD, the term 'Russia' was first mentioned in historical records. At this time, the region known as Russia was inhabited by various Slavic tribes. The name 'Russia' is believed to be derived from the medieval state of Rus, which was centered around Kiev. The Rus people were a group of Eastern Slavs who established trade connections with the Byzantine Empire and adopted Orthodox Christianity.

9th century

The Birth of Rus

In the 9th century, the region now known as Russia was inhabited by Slavic tribes. The Norse people, known as Varangians, made contact with these tribes and established trade routes along the rivers. It was during this time that the foundation of the future Russian state was laid.

862 Rurik the Rus

In the year 862, Rurik, a Viking leader, was invited by the Slavic tribes to rule over them. Rurik established his capital in Novgorod and his dynasty, known as the Rurik Dynasty, would rule over Russia for over 700 years. The term 'Rus' referenced the Scandinavian origins of the ruling class.

988 AD

Adoption of Orthodox Christianity

In 988 AD, the ruler of the Kievan Rus, Prince Vladimir the Great, officially adopted Orthodox Christianity as the state religion. This significant event had a profound impact on the cultural and religious identity of the Russian people. The adoption of Orthodox Christianity brought them into close contact with the Byzantine Empire, influencing their art, architecture, and religious practices.

988 Christianization of Rus

In 988, the ruler of Kyivan Rus, Prince Vladimir the Great, converted to Christianity and adopted Byzantine Christianity as the official religion. This had a profound impact on the culture and identity of the region, shaping its religious and artistic traditions for centuries to come.

1237-1240 AD

The Mongol Invasion

In the years 1237-1240 AD, the Mongol Empire, led by Genghis Khan's grandson Batu Khan, launched a devastating invasion of the Kievan Rus. The Mongols conquered and sacked many major cities, including Kiev. This period of Mongol rule, known as the Mongol Yoke, had a lasting impact on Russia. It led to the decline of the Kievan Rus as a political entity and the fragmentation of the region into separate principalities.

1237-1240

The Mongol Invasion

During the early 13th century, the Mongols led by Batu Khan invaded the Rus territories. The Mongols established the Golden Horde, under which Russia was ruled for the next two centuries. This period of Mongol domination had a lasting impact on Russia's political and social development.

1547 AD

Ivan the Terrible and the Tsardom of Russia

In 1547 AD, Ivan IV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, was crowned the first Tsar of Russia. This marked the establishment of the Tsardom of Russia, a centralized state ruled by a single monarch. Ivan the Terrible expanded the territory of Russia, established a code of laws, and implemented important political and economic reforms. His reign laid the foundations for the Russian Empire that would emerge in the future.

1917 AD

The Russian Revolution

In 1917 AD, an uprising known as the Russian Revolution overthrew the Tsarist autocracy and established the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. This revolution marked a dramatic shift in Russia's political landscape and led to the eventual formation of the Soviet Union. The revolution was driven by social and economic discontent, as well as a desire for political change among the working class and peasants.

1480

End of Mongol Rule

In 1480, Ivan III, also known as Ivan the Great, declared the independence of the Moscow principality from the Mongol rule. This marked a significant turning point in Russian history, and Ivan III laid the foundations of the centralized Russian state.

1547

Tsardom of Russia

In 1547, Ivan IV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, was crowned as the first Tsar of Russia. This marked the transformation of Russia from a fragmented collection of principalities into a centralized state, firmly establishing the power of the Russian monarchy.

1991 AD

The Dissolution of the Soviet Union

In 1991 AD, following a period of political and economic instability, the Soviet Union dissolved, leading to the emergence of the Russian Federation. The dissolution of the Soviet Union marked the end of an era and brought significant changes to the political and economic landscape of Russia. The Russian Federation became an independent country, and the term 'Russia' took on a new meaning as it referred to the newly formed nation.

1721

The Russian Empire

In 1721, after a series of military victories and territorial expansions under Peter the Great, Russia was officially proclaimed as the Russian Empire. The Russian Empire would become one of the largest and most influential empires in history, spanning from Eastern Europe to Alaska and the Pacific.

1917

Russian Revolution

In 1917, the Russian Revolution took place, overthrowing the Russian monarchy and establishing a socialist government led by the Bolshevik Party. This event marked the beginning of a new era in Russian history, leading eventually to the formation of the Soviet Union.

1991

Dissolution of the Soviet Union

In 1991, following political upheavals and economic crises, the Soviet Union dissolved, and Russia emerged as an independent nation. This event brought significant political and economic changes to Russia and paved the way for its modern development.

Did you know?

Did you know that Russia is home to the world's deepest lake? Lake Baikal reaches down to an astonishing depth of 5,387 feet (1,642 meters). That's like diving into an underwater kingdom!