Clare Westwood on July 13th, 2010

The USA And Russia In Spy Trade Off

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Tony Rockwell on May 20th, 2010

Like a wedge of cheese, the balalaika is triangular in shape. A strum of the strings shows that this wooden instrument is not only unique in shape, but also unique in sound. It began as the main Russian folk music maker, but has since become a staple of ensembles all over the world. The actual timeframe of its origin is mysterious, but the 19th century is when jesters used the balalaika to compose tunes that taunted Russian Tsars. What is the reasoning behind its peculiar shape? There are several speculations.

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Natalia Chajkovskaya on May 13th, 2010

If you are looking for more ways to impress your Russian wife (or your soon to be wife) ensure you dive into Russian literature to get yourself familiar with these cultural works.

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Tony Rockwell on May 8th, 2010

At every meal in Ukraine, you will most likely find some type of bread. This classic baked treat is a common food staple all over the world, but it holds a special significance in Ukrainian culture. Bread symbolizes prosperity, divinity, and hospitality. Known as the breadbasket of Europe, Ukraine has very rich soil which produces hearty grains. When the very first Ukrainians began harvesting the land, grains and breads quickly became sacred objects of worship and rituals. The baking and decoration of bread became a form of art for Ukrainian women.

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Natalia Chajkovskaya on May 3rd, 2010

I have heard and recently realized that there is a both a reflect and affect on a culture’s way of thinking, but never really understood what it meant until I tried to teach my husband the Russian language.

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