A system of labor camps maintained in the Soviet Union in the early to mid 20th century.
Russian name for World War II.
A very rich business person who might also maintain a great deal of political authority. Oligarchs proliferated in Russia after the fall of the USSR as many previously state owned assets were acquired below market value.
A sect of Islam distinct from Shia in that its adherents do not believe that the succession of the Prophet Mohammed should be hereditary and follow family bloodlines.
A type of economic system that is not controlled by a central authority but rather left to the free and open collaboration and decisions of the participants in the market.
Countries that were part of the Soviet Union, some of which maintained some relative autonomy.
The empire founded by Genghis Khan that extended in the 13th and 14th century across Asia into Europe.
A former industrial site affected by environmental contamination.
Region found between the tundra and steppe regions of northern latitudes that is generally composed of coniferous forests.
The democratic movement in Ukraine after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
A significant and highly influential ancient trade route that linked Europe with China.
Political fragments of a state not physically connected to that state and surrounded by the territory of one or other nations.
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