Settlement Patterns
Founded in 12th century after 200 years of Mongolian rule. During the 19th century more land from Asia and Europe. Defeat in the Russo-Japanese war in 1904 somewhat led to the revolution of 1905. Several losses during World War One led to widespread rioting and the eventual coup d’etat of the Tzar (imperial ruler of Russia at that time). The Communists under Vladimir Lenin later formed the USSR. In December 1991 the USSR broke apart and formed Russia and 14 other nations (CIA).
Some of the current cites in Russia are Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Moscow is the current capital of Russia. Many people live there, and they get quite a few tourist there to experience Russia and see the magnificent buildings. St. Petersburg was one of Russia's previous capitals. It is recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world (physcon). It is also known as the Venice of the north because of all the channels cutting through the city.