Background
The cultural history of Russia is rich. The origins of Russia can be dated back to the 9th century with the establishment of the first Eastern European state, Kievan Rus. The lands became populated by the Slavs and Vikings. It was influenced by the Greeks and invaded by the Mongols. The land was governed by powerful rulers and went through many revolutions. All of these influences made Russia and other Eastern European countries the way that it is today.
