Abstract: The subject of this research is the phenomenon of regional identity on the example of Volgograd Oblast. The goal of this work lies in a comprehensive analysis of Volgograd identity, aimed at revealing most significant patterns, trends and determinants characterizing its specificity. The author examines such aspects of the topic as the impact of migration, ethnic multiplicity, historical events, spatial-geographical position of Volgograd and the region upon the representation of regional identity. Special attention is given to the practical importance of regional identity for sustainable development of the territory and improvement of the quality of life. The following methods were applied in the course of this research: visual observation, search, collection and examination of local literature, analysis of the regional regulatory acts, monitoring and content analysis of the materials of Volgograd mass media, work in the local lore museums. The author gives definition to the concept of “regional identity” as a social and spatial-geographical phenomenon; as well as determines the key levels comprising its structure. The article is first to describe the factors impeding the formation of the firmly expressed and shared identity for the population of the region. It is concluded that the sociocultural, geographical, and historical specificities of Volgograd Oblast problematize the determination, description, and analysis of Volgograd identity.

Keywords: cultural landscape, multiethnic region, residents of Volgograd region, Volgograd, Volgograd region, humanitarian geography, regional identity, migration, social community, aspatial

Abstract: This article presents the results of studying Russian population of Barguzin Baikal region, examines its establishment, and evolution of relationships within the local groups in the early XX century. The role of sociopolitical changes in formation of the indigenous ethnic communities is demonstrated. The research leans on the archival and literary sources, and field materials of the author. The historical-geographical approach allows identifying the peculiarities of formation of population structure and ancestry within the Russian local communities of Barguzin Baikal region, confined to agricultural and farming areas. Research methodology considers the specificities of communication inside the local group, and presents the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of population. The author determines the factors of formation of ethnic groups, as well as socio-cultural development of the territory. The article also explores the role of migrations, natural conditions, and economic specificity of the new population settlements, successiveness, geographical and social mobility of the Russian population, demographic development in the localities of Barguzin Baikal region, reflected in the archival sources.

Keywords: areas of mastering, exiled, old-timers, surname fund, population, resettlement, peasants, russians, Barguzin region, cultural landscape