The Trans-Siberian Railway
Short History Of...
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The Russian Railway and the First World War
The Russo-Japanese conflict prompts the authorities to step up construction of a stretch of track through mountains south of Lake Baikar. Wealthy tourists travel in style, sleeping in lavish carriages with tiled on sweet bathrooms. The journey takes 16 days by regular train and 13 days on an express. But those who cannot afford first class have a less comfortable experience; cheapest tickets give access to little more than cattle wagons. It is called into service for the First World War, hauling troops and tanks to the front. Russia turns her anger on her leaders, especially Tsar Nicholas. In March 1917, it is inside a carriage of the imperial train that Tsar Nicholas signs the abd
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