The 1956 Olympic water polo semifinal between Hungary and the Soviet Union, known as the ‘Blood in the Water’ game, remains one of the most dramatic and controversial moments in Olympic history. Amidst the Hungarian Revolution, the match was marred by violence and culminated in an iconic image of Hungarian player Erwin Zador leaving the pool with blood pouring from his eye. This game stands as a testament to the emotional and political weight that can be carried by sporting events.
Svetlana Savitskaya, a Russian former aviator and Soviet cosmonaut, made history in 1984 by becoming the first woman to conduct a spacewalk. She spent nearly three and a half hours outside the Salyut 7 space station, welding metals alongside her fellow cosmonaut Vladimir Dzhanibekov. Learn about Savitskaya’s remarkable life and accomplishments, from her early passion for flying to her numerous world records and the asteroid named in her honor.
This article explores the multifaceted role of Soviet Russia in supporting North Vietnam during the Vietnam War, highlighting how their aid contributed to the US withdrawal and eventual unification of the country under communist rule.
Georgia commemorated its Independence Day on Sunday, marking the nation’s declaration of independence as a democratic republic in 1918 following years of foreign rule. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Georgia faced numerous obstacles in its quest for independence. After declaring sovereignty in 1917, the First Georgian Republic was established, but its existence was cut short by annexation to the Soviet Union. Georgia regained its full independence upon the fall of the USSR. Independence Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of democracy. Nationwide, Georgians pay tribute through flag-raising ceremonies, parades, music concerts, and fireworks displays. Family gatherings and traditional meals also play a significant role in the celebrations.
Jon Voight, the Academy Award-winning actor, shares his experiences visiting Russia in 1991 and again 15 years later. In 1991, he witnessed the oppressive atmosphere of the communist era, but on his second visit, he saw the positive changes that had taken place thanks in part to Ronald Reagan’s leadership. Voight also shares his involvement in the upcoming film ‘Reagan,’ in which he plays a retired KGB agent.
Tankers, the 2018 Russian war film, is now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. The movie, directed by Konstantin Maksimov and based on a true story, follows a Soviet tank crew who must face overwhelming odds in battle. The cast includes Andrey Chernyshov, Vladimir Yepifantsev, and Olga Pogodina.
