Trans-Siberian Railway

Year Published: 1970

Creator: National Geographic Society Film Series

Complete Record: FROM THE EDUCATION LEAFLET IN THE CAN: The world’s longest single stretch of track -- the Trans-Siberian Railroad -- extends from Moscow in European Russian to Vladivostok on the Pacific coast. Completed in the early 1900s, the Trans-Siberian provided the means for the colonization and economic development of Siberia. Today along its nearly 6,000-mile route live some two-thirds of Siberia’s population. For those who work on it, travel on it, or live near it, the railroad is more than a convenience -- it is a way of life. In addition to transporting people and goods, the railroad provides such essentials as a traveling food store, medical and dental clinics, a clothing store, and a place for villagers to meet with government spokesmen and learn about national program and activities. Features: Troika sleds; brick yard and brick laying; smoke stacks spewing smoke; LS of long train and MS of train engineer; people waiting at stations; historic still photographs of laying of rails in 1891; historic film footage of 1900 station in Moscow and 1904 completion and joining of Vladivostok to Moscow. Shots of waterway transports that connect with rail system. Unusual historical film of engine being chased by Siberian warriors. Shots of workers both inside and outside train and in engineer-business office. Two Russians dance for travelers.