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Belarus, officially Respublika Belarus (Republic of Belarus),
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landlocked republic in east central Europe, bordered by Russia to the east, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and the Baltic republics of Latvia and Lithuania to the northwest. Belarus has a generally flat terrain with many forests, lakes, and marshes. Nearly 80 percent of its people are ethnic Belarusians, and about two-thirds of its population live in urban centers. Belarus has a centrally planned economy dominated by state-controlled heavy industry. Its government is a presidential republic in which the executive is the chief authority. The capital and largest city is Minsk, located in the center of the country.
Since medieval times Belarusian territory was under foreign rule, and in the 18th century it was annexed by the Russian Empire. Belarusian national and cultural development made major strides only from the mid-19th century. Belarus was established in 1919 as the Belorussian Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR), which in 1922 became one of the four founding republics of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). In August 1991 Belarus declared its independence, contributing to the collapse of the USSR in December.
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The People of Belarus
In the last complete census conducted in the Soviet Union in 1989, the population of Belarus was 10,151,806; the 1995 estimate was 10,310,000, giving the country a population density of nearly 50 persons per sq km (nearly 130 per sq mi). The most notable demographic trend since the 1950s has been the steady migration of the population from the villages to urban centers, and the correspondent aging of the population remaining in the rural areas. In 1959 urban residents accounted for 31 percent of the population; in 1979 they accounted for 55 percent; and in 1996 they accounted for about 66 percent. The most-populated cities are Minsk, the capital and largest city; Homyel'; Mahilyow; Vitebsk; Hrodna; and Brêst. All of these cities are industrial centers. Minsk, Homyel', and Hrodna have universities.
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Way of Life
The population remains deeply influenced by the Soviet period, retaining its heroes and legends. Belarusians generally revere the past, and former Soviet government leaders tend to dominate society, living in superior apartments and using personal chauffeurs. There also is a small new business-oriented elite with similar privileges. Movements for civil rights and women's liberation have barely penetrated the social fabric.
Belarusians are fond of sports and excel in gymnastics and rowing. Soccer, basketball, and ice hockey are also popular. Belarus maintains cultural facilities in Minsk and other cities. Such amenities are not available in rural areas, where social occasions tend to be family-centered. The people of Belarus generally hold close family contacts.
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"Belarus," Microsoft ® Encarta 98 Encyclopedia.
© 1993-1997 Microsoft Corporation.
All rights reserved.
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