Channel Title: Soviet-Born Channel Description: Welcome to our channel Soviet-Born. My name is Julia, and on this channel, together with my husband Hakim, I will be sharing stories from our lives in the USSR. The words, stories, and conclusions on this channel belong to us; they are subjective, and you are free to agree or disagree with them—it's your right, just as it is ours to share them with you. We look forward to your feedback, what you think about the format, editing, and more. We are open to ideas and especially constructive criticism. <video> USSR's Alcohol Problem pt1 #soviet #alcohol #ussr Description: Welcome to our channel, Soviet-Born! I'm Julie, and along with my husband Hakim, we share glimpses of life in the USSR. Our stories are personal and subjective, and we encourage you to engage in the discussion, whether you agree or not. ____________________________________________ Discover the shocking truth about alcoholism in the USSR - a crisis so severe that by 1980, the average Soviet citizen consumed 53 bottles of vodka annually. Through personal stories and startling statistics, this video reveals how alcohol became not just a drink, but a parallel currency and a deadly epidemic in Soviet society. Key points covered: The staggering rise in alcohol consumption from 1960 to 1980 How alcohol-related deaths claimed 486,000 lives annually - equivalent to a medium-sized city The iconic faceted glass and its connection to Soviet culture The government's contradictory policies on alcohol Personal stories of lives destroyed by alcoholism, including two former classmates The use of alcohol as an unofficial currency for goods and services This video explores the complex relationship between the Soviet state and alcohol, where vodka was both a profitable commodity and a social destroyer. Through authentic accounts and historical context, we uncover how drinking culture permeated every aspect of Soviet life - from workplace relations to family dynamics. #SovietHistory #Alcoholism #SocialIssues #USSR #historicaldocumentary ____________________________________________ Support us: https://patreon.com/SovietBorn </video> <video> USSR's Alcohol Problem pt1 #soviet #alcohol #ussr Description: Welcome to our channel, Soviet-Born! I'm Julie, and along with my husband Hakim, we share glimpses of life in the USSR. Our stories are personal and subjective, and we encourage you to engage in the discussion, whether you agree or not. ____________________________________________ Discover the shocking truth about alcoholism in the USSR - a crisis so severe that by 1980, the average Soviet citizen consumed 53 bottles of vodka annually. Through personal stories and startling statistics, this video reveals how alcohol became not just a drink, but a parallel currency and a deadly epidemic in Soviet society. Key points covered: The staggering rise in alcohol consumption from 1960 to 1980 How alcohol-related deaths claimed 486,000 lives annually - equivalent to a medium-sized city The iconic faceted glass and its connection to Soviet culture The government's contradictory policies on alcohol Personal stories of lives destroyed by alcoholism, including two former classmates The use of alcohol as an unofficial currency for goods and services This video explores the complex relationship between the Soviet state and alcohol, where vodka was both a profitable commodity and a social destroyer. Through authentic accounts and historical context, we uncover how drinking culture permeated every aspect of Soviet life - from workplace relations to family dynamics. #SovietHistory #Alcoholism #SocialIssues #USSR #historicaldocumentary ____________________________________________ Support us: https://patreon.com/SovietBorn </video> <video> Why USSR Make Triangular Bottles? #soviets #ussr Description: Discover the mystery behind the USSR's triangular bottles in this quick #shorts video! </video> <video> Why the USSR Made Fridges with Locks? 🤫 #soviethistory Description: Ever wondered why Soviet refrigerators had locks? In this quick video, we dive into the intriguing reasons behind this unusual feature. From food scarcity to cultural practices, discover how these locks reflected life in the USSR. Don’t miss out on this fascinating glimpse into history! </video> <video> How the Soviet Union Stole Christmas (And Created 2 New Years) Description: The Incredible Story of Lost Soviet Christmas Welcome to Soviet-Born! I'm Julie, and today we're diving into one of the most fascinating aspects of Soviet history - how the USSR transformed the winter holiday season and created a unique celebration culture that exists to this day. In this video, we uncover the surprising story of how post-Soviet countries ended up with four New Year celebrations and why the Soviet Union "stole" Christmas. This lesser-known historical tale reveals how political decisions shaped cultural traditions that continue to influence millions of people. Key points covered: - The 1920s Soviet ban on Christmas celebrations - The transformation of Christmas traditions into New Year celebrations - The introduction of Ded Moroz and Snegurochka as Soviet alternatives - The fascinating story of the calendar change in 1918 - Why January 7th became the new Christmas date - How four different New Year celebrations emerged Through this historical journey, you'll discover how the Soviet Union's attempt to eliminate religious holidays led to the creation of unique cultural traditions that blend both old and new celebrations, resulting in an extended holiday season that's unlike anywhere else in the world. ____________________________________________________ ❤️ Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn #SovietHistory #NewYear #USSR #Christmas #SovietUnion #HistoricalDocumentary </video> <video> The Cheapest Soviet Dessert for Christmas and New Year Description: Join me, Julie from Soviet Born, as I share the heartwarming story of Royal Vatrushka – a beloved dessert that brought joy to Soviet homes during the coldest winter days. This isn't just another recipe; it's a testament to how simple ingredients could create something truly special, earning its "royal" status despite humble beginnings. In this episode, I'll show you how this magical combination of cottage cheese, eggs, and butter transforms into a dessert that has warmed generations of Soviet families. You'll learn why this recipe became a cherished part of New Year's and Christmas celebrations, bringing comfort and happiness during the harsh continental winters. I'll share personal memories of my grandmother's kitchen, where this recipe was passed down with love, and reveal the simple techniques that make this dessert truly special. Whether you're interested in Soviet history, traditional baking, or just love heartwarming family stories, this episode offers a unique glimpse into a cherished tradition that continues to bring joy today. What holiday recipes remind you of your family traditions? Share your stories in the comments below! And if you want to discover more authentic Soviet recipes and stories that aren't told anywhere else, subscribe to Soviet Born. #RussianDesserts #SovietRecipes #ChristmasBaking ___________________________________ Timestamps 00:00 Intro 1:35 The History of Vatrushka 2:08 Ingredients 7:51 The Final Result 9:31 Hunger After WW2 or "You're Stealing from the USSR!" 16:05 The Main WW2 Dessert During Times of Hunger 21:33 Final Tasting and Recipe Recommendations ___________________________________ ⭐ Support our channel by liking, sharing, and joining our Patreon community! Your support helps us share more exclusive stories and recipes from the Soviet era. Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn </video> <video> 1960s Soviet Hood No Changes | Russian Apartment tour PT12 #sovietarchitecture #soviet Description: In today's episode, we step back into time as we explore a neighborhood and barrack-style apartment complex that hasn't changed much since the 70s. These two-story "Finnish design" houses have seen generations pass through their doors, but their essence remains the same. From Soviet-era pigeon coops to fenced-off plots and preserved communal spaces, you’ll witness a slice of history frozen in time. We'll also enter one of the Most typical Russian apartment, where multiple generations continue to live. Though time has passed, the layout, furniture, and daily life evoke the Soviet way of living. With every corner holding a memory, you'll see how families adapted their homes with what they had, from vintage carpets to everyday items still in use. Join us on this journey and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Your feedback helps us shape future content. Don't forget to subscribe to 'Soviet-Born' for more stories about the realities of Soviet life! </video> <video> The Most Absurd Soviet Tax! #ussr Description: What was the Soviet 'Balls Tax,' and why was it so absurd? Join us as we explore this unusual tax and its impact on everyday life in the USSR! </video> <video> Why Was a Car the Ultimate Soviet Dream? Description: The Most Cherished Soviet Dream: Cars in the USSR The Typical Soviet Dream: 10 Years in Queue The Volga: More Than Just a Car - A Symbol of Soviet Success Join me, Julie from Soviet Born, as I share my intimate childhood memory of riding in the legendary GAZ-21 Volga - the queen of Soviet roads. As a little girl sitting in that massive backseat, I felt like true royalty. But this story goes far beyond just one car... Working as a young cashier in a Soviet auto parts store, I witnessed firsthand how cars transformed from mere transportation into symbols of status and achievement. From impossible waiting lists to underground deals, from cosmonauts with special privileges to ordinary citizens dreaming of their own wheels - every car had a story. You'll hear exclusive insider tales from Soviet car culture, including an incredible story of a scorned wife who demanded to split her husband's car piece by piece during their divorce. I'll reveal why my mother refused to let our family buy a prestigious Niva, despite my father's dreams, and what really happened in those legendary Soviet garage communities. Whether you're interested in Soviet history, classic cars, or just love a good story, this episode offers a unique glimpse into a world where owning a car meant you'd truly "made it" - if you could get one at all. Have any car stories from the Soviet era? Share them in the comments below! And if you want to hear more insider stories about Soviet life that nobody else will tell you, subscribe to Soviet Born. ____________________________ ⭐ Want to support the channel? Like this video and share it with friends who love soviet history and cars! Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn #SovietHistory #USSR #historicaldocumentary </video> <video> Babushka’s Typical Soviet Apartment: 58 Years in the Same Flat Description: Welcome to our channel, Soviet-Born! I'm Julie, and along with my husband Hakim, we offer a glimpse into everyday life in the USSR. Our stories are personal and subjective, and we encourage you to join the conversation, whether you agree or not. Step inside the life of a Soviet pensioner —a story that’s all too familiar for many who grew up during World War II and spent decades rebuilding the country. In this video, we take you on a tour of an typical soviet apartment that hasn't changed much since Soviet times, revealing how people who helped build the USSR are living today. Key points covered: - 58 Years in the Same apartment - The realities of surviving on a $200 monthly pension - How pensioners manage to afford basic repairs, like replacing outdated sewage pipes - The Soviet-era details that remain in their homes, from gas cylinders to cast-iron radiators - A look into the daily challenges faced by seniors, and why they continue to live in these conditions Through this tour, you’ll see how Soviet pensioners who once earned "good" pensions are now struggling with modest means, while still holding onto the values they learned in the USSR. #SovietUnion #Pensioners #Babushka #SocialIssues #USSR #historicaldocumentary ____________________________________________ Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn #SovietHistory #USSR #historicaldocumentary </video> <video> Living INSIDE the Most TERRIBLE Soviet Apartments Description: Living INSIDE the Most TERRIBLE Soviet Apartments Welcome to Soviet-Born! We're Julie and Hakim, and today we're taking you on an extraordinary journey into a piece of living Soviet history - a 70-year-old barracks building that's still inhabited. Located in the heart of a modern city center, these worker housing blocks mirror Julie's childhood memories and stand as remarkable survivors of a bygone era. Through our lens, you'll discover how families adapt and live in these historical structures today. Key points covered: Exploring a Rare Surviving Soviet Barracks Inside Tour of Original 1950s Worker Housing A Time Capsule: Soviet Playground Still in Use Heating Systems: From Wood Stoves to Modern Solutions Meeting Current Residents and Their Stories Personal Memories: Julie's Childhood in Similar Housing Remarkable Stories of Life in Soviet Communal Buildings Join us as we document these unique buildings that were never meant to last this long, yet continue housing families decades later. Through personal stories and detailed exploration, we reveal both the challenges and the incredible adaptability of those who call these historic structures home. #SovietUnion #WorkerHousing #SovietHistory #USSR #HistoricalDocumentary #SovietLife Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn #SovietHistory #USSR #HistoricalDocumentary </video> <video> This $1 Soviet Dish SAVED us Description: Join me, Julie from Soviet Born, as I take you through the story of vinеgret – a classic salad that warmed countless Soviet winters. This wasn’t just any dish; for many families, it was a symbol of togetherness and resilience in a time of scarcity. In this episode, we’ll go on a shopping trip to a post-Soviet store to gather the simple, yet iconic ingredients needed for vinеgret – potatoes, carrots, beets, and more. I’ll share how this simple mix of vegetables was transformed into a hearty meal that could last for days, giving strength during tough winters and making the most of what was available. You’ll hear a personal story of how vinеgret helped my family get through some of the hardest times, bringing comfort, flavor, and warmth when we needed it most Whether you’re a fan of Soviet history, Russian cuisine, or just appreciate heartwarming stories, this episode offers a unique taste of a simpler, but powerful, tradition. So, what dishes bring back memories for you? Share them in the comments below! And if you want to hear more stories from a life that no one else remembers quite like this, subscribe to Soviet Born. ⭐ Want to support the channel? Like this video and share it with friends who love Soviet history and classic recipes! Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn #SovietHistory #RussianCuisine #USSR </video> <video> The Most Unconventional Soviet Salad Description: 🐟 Learn how to make the iconic Soviet layered salad "Herring Under Shuba" (Herring Under Fur Coat) with Julie from Soviet Born! This beloved dish has a fascinating revolutionary history dating back to 1910 and remains a cherished part of Soviet cuisine. In this video, I'll show you how to prepare this classic dish step by step, using traditional methods and sharing authentic tips passed down through generations. You'll learn: - The historical origins of this revolutionary-inspired dish - Complete ingredient list and preparation techniques - How to properly layer each component - Tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors - The symbolic meaning behind each ingredient 🔑 Key Ingredients: Mild cured herring Potatoes Carrots Beetroot Eggs Mayonnaise ⏰ Recipe includes resting time in the refrigerator for the perfect flavor fusion. 💡 Special Tips: Always taste your herring before assembling Learn the perfect layer thickness for the ideal bite Storage tips for up to 3 days Want to see more authentic Soviet recipes and stories? Follow us on Patreon for exclusive content. #RussianDesserts #SovietRecipes #ChristmasBaking ___________________________________ Timestamps 0:00 - Intro 1:56 - Ingredients and Cooking 9:23 - The Unique History of the Salad 12:37 - The Final Result and Tips ___________________________________ ⭐ Support our channel by liking, sharing, and joining our Patreon community! Your support helps us share more exclusive stories and recipes from the Soviet era. Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn </video> <video> This Typical SOVIET MARKET SURVIVED Communism Description: Join me, Julie, from Soviet Born, on an extraordinary time-traveling journey through a post-Soviet market that's barely changed since the USSR! This isn't just shopping - it's a living museum of Soviet everyday life. Step into a world where markets were more than just places to buy goods - they were social hubs, entertainment centers, and a glimpse into the heart of Soviet culture. From iconic felt boots (valenki) and vintage kitchenware to rare Soviet books and nostalgic Christmas ornaments, we'll explore every corner of this incredible marketplace. Discover items that have survived decades: aluminum pots from Soviet school kitchens, crystal dishware, Olympic memorabilia from the 1980 Moscow Games, and even The Book of Tasty and Healthy Food - a cookbook that defined Soviet home cooking! What makes this journey special? Nothing has really changed. The market still looks, feels, and sounds just like it did during Soviet times. It's a living, breathing piece of history that you can touch, feel, and experience. Curious about daily life in the Soviet Union? Want to see how people really lived, shopped, and survived? This video is your backstage pass to an authentic Soviet experience! ⭐ Want to support the channel? Like this video and share it with friends who love Soviet history! Vinegret recipe video: https://youtu.be/TlrjC_t5eiE?si=hQkfGwJRvXaIWSrQ Support us: https://www.patreon.com/SovietBorn 📙 During the production of the video, I stumbled upon The Book of Tasty and Healthy Food. We’ve translated some fascinating facts just for you about the book and its author, which we think you’ll find intriguing. Check out the full details in this publicly accessible post: https://www.patreon.com/posts/elena-culinary-116825988 #SovietHistory #RussianMarket #USSR </video> <video> Why’re They All 5-Story? Inside a Typical Soviet apt. building Description: Ever wondered why Soviet cities are filled with identical 5 and 9-story buildings? In this exclusive tour, I'll show you the hidden world of Soviet residential architecture and reveal fascinating details most Westerners never knew about! Take a journey through real Soviet apartment buildings as I explore how state standards shaped these iconic structures. From the practical reason behind 9-story elevator requirements to the clever double-door entrance system designed for harsh winters, discover the thoughtful engineering behind these often-misunderstood buildings. Step inside a typical Soviet entrance way where I'll show you the original elevator systems, garbage chutes, and even the radiator corners where teenagers would gather on cold nights. Join me for this authentic look at daily life in Soviet residential buildings - from the practical innovations to the social traditions that shaped millions of lives. As someone who lived through this era, I'll share unfiltered insights you won't find anywhere else. 🔍 In this episode, you'll learn: Why Soviet residential buildings were strictly 5 or 9 stories tall How apartment layouts were standardized The story behind those double entrance doors What life was like for residents (especially elderly) Where young people gathered in winter The surprising truth about 6-story buildings The stark contrast with elite Stalin-era architecture __________ Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:45 Inside a 9-Story apt. building 12:44 Inside a 5-Story Khrushchevka __________ 🔔 Subscribe to SovietBorn for more real stories about life in the USSR, told by those who actually lived it! #SovietArchitecture #SovietHistory #Khrushchevka #UrbanHistory #SovietLife #Architecture #RussianHistory #USSR #SovietUnion #SovietBuildings #HistoricalArchitecture #CommunistArchitecture #SovietEra #RussianArchitecture #UrbanExploration </video>

Contacts and Links

Description

Welcome to our channel Soviet-Born. My name is Julia, and on this channel, together with my husband Hakim, I will be sharing stories from our lives in the USSR. The words, stories, and conclusions on this channel belong to us; they are subjective, and you are free to agree or disagree with them—it's your right, just as it is ours to share them with you. We look forward to your feedback, what you think about the format, editing, and more. We are open to ideas and especially constructive criticism.

Videos from channel