The Russian road: “Railways question” in the public life (1820-1850-ies)

Abstract

The article is devoted to the early stage of formation of the railway transport in Russia (1820-1850-ies). The basic stages of professional and public debate about the introduction of the railroads are stated. The progress and approval of both construction of the Russia's first rail lines and railway projects unrealized duzing the specified period are considered. The position of the key figures of the era in public administration, economy and culture are analysed. Some important social aspects of the “railway” project are estimated.