Gorskki, with support from Tsar Nicolas II and the Ministry of Transportation, captured Russian life from all aspects during his campaign. Gorskii captured numerous pictures that displayed a diverse nation: transportation (industrial lifestyle), ethnic diversity, architecture and the working class. Both of our pictures fall under the category of people are work, or the peasantry class of early 20th century Russia. On a national level, in 1905 (the year this photo was taken), Russia is dealing with multiple peasant uprisings in response to reforms that lessened, even more, the peasant voice.
Author: rachelharriman10
Comment on Fisherman on the Iset’ River by rachelharriman10
Kelly, I really enjoyed your metaphor when comparing Russian lifestyle to that of a tree. Especially for the peasantry at this time, hardships were evidently present but despite the fact many were forced to plant their roots deeper and brace the coming storms that would enclose around them.
Your photo, in my opinion, also shows the individual (in this case an elderly man) is able to escape and find peace with himself. He seems very content in the photograph and maybe Gorskii was trying to convey a sense of relaxation or reflection.
Comment on Snapshot of The Empire: Life of the Peasantry in Russia by rachelharriman10
Erdely, your post has a direct correlation to my photo. My chosen photo was of peasants who were in the process of “haying” the fields, or as we now refer to it, bailing hay. While examining my photo, I had the question of what would happen to this hay after it was harvested? Although it is not entirely clear, it hints to the idea that the hay was compacted in bails (for easier transportation) and then distributed or transported by rail line.
You also ask many question about the haying process, which I believe I could be of assistance. According to a book written about the agrarian lifestyle of individuals in Wyoming, during the early 20th century, it took about 45 days to complete the haying process. I use this comparison only because, both these families and the Russian farmers used only domestic tools, no industrial equipment. I would also have to add that the time would also depend on the size of the fields. To answer your question about the women, yes they did assist in the haying process as well as their children.
Garceau, Dee. “The Important Things in Life: Women, Work, and Family in Sweetwater County, Wyoming, 1880-1929”. Canadian Journal of History. Accessed January 22, 2018. https://doi.org/10.3138/cjh.33.2.324.
