Russian Americans facts for kids

Russian Americans are people in the United States who have family roots in Russia, the former Russian Empire, or the former Soviet Union. They are a big part of the diverse mix of people who make up America. Many Russian Americans have kept their traditions, language, and culture alive.

Who Are Russian Americans?

Russian Americans are citizens or residents of the U.S. who trace their family history back to Russia. This includes people who moved from Russia themselves, as well as their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They come from many different backgrounds within Russia, including various ethnic groups and religions.

Where Do Russian Americans Live?

Russian Americans live all over the United States. Some of the places with many Russian Americans include:

• New York City, especially in Brooklyn
• California, in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco
• Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh
• Illinois, around the Chicago metropolitan area
• Ohio, in Greater Cleveland
• Oregon, especially in Portland

Many also live in Alaska, which was once a Russian territory.

A Look at Russian American History

The story of Russian Americans began a long time ago.

Early Russian Settlers

The first Russians came to North America in the 1700s. They were explorers and fur traders. They settled in Alaska, which was then part of Russia. They built small towns and churches. One famous settlement was Fort Ross in California, built in 1812. It was a trading post where Russians lived and worked.

Fort Ross, California, established in 1812.

Waves of Immigration

Many Russians came to the U.S. in different time periods:

• Late 1800s to Early 1900s: A large number of Russians moved to America during this time. They were often looking for better jobs and more freedom. Many were farmers, factory workers, or skilled craftspeople.
• After the Russian Revolution (1917): Some Russians left their home country because of political changes. They wanted to escape the new government and find a safer place to live.
• During the Cold War: Fewer Russians came to the U.S. during this time. It was harder to leave the Soviet Union.
• After the Soviet Union Ended (1991): A new wave of immigrants arrived. These people came for many reasons, including economic opportunities and to join family members already in the U.S.

Culture and Traditions

Russian Americans have brought many parts of their culture to the U.S.

Language

While most Russian Americans speak American English, many also speak Russian. It helps them stay connected to their heritage. Russian language schools and cultural centers exist in many communities.

Religion

Most Russian Americans follow the Eastern Orthodox faith. Churches like the Russian Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Church in America are important community centers. Some Russian Americans are also Old Believers, a group with unique religious traditions.

St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland, established in 1896.

Food and Holidays

Russian American families often enjoy traditional Russian foods. These might include borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (thin pancakes). They also celebrate holidays like Orthodox Christmas (January 7th) and Easter, which are important religious and family events.

Contributions to American Society

Russian Americans have made many important contributions to the United States. They have excelled in:

• Science and Technology: Many Russian American scientists and engineers have helped with new discoveries and inventions.
• Arts and Music: Talented artists, musicians, writers, and dancers from Russian backgrounds have enriched American culture.
• Sports: Russian American athletes have achieved success in various sports.
• Business: Many have started successful businesses, creating jobs and helping the economy.

Russian Americans continue to be a vibrant part of the American story, blending their rich heritage with their lives in the U.S.

Images for kids

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  Fort Ross, est. in 1812 in present-day Sonoma County, California.

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  St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland, est. in 1896.

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  Russian immigrant home, New York City, 1910—1915.

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  Russian-speaking bankers in Chicago, 1916.

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  Distribution of Russian Americans according to the 2000 census, red indicates higher concentrations

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  Russian Old Believers Church in Gervais, Oregon

See also

In Spanish: Inmigración rusa en los Estados Unidos para niños