The Image of Warsaw in the Correspondence published in “Sankt-Peterburgskie Vedomosti” in the Years 1855–1881

Abstract

"Sankt-Peterburgskie Vedomosti” was one of the most widely-read newspapers in the Russian Empire throughout nearly the whole 19th century. This periodical featured the news from various territories controlled by the Russian Empire, including the Kingdom of Poland –in particular, Warsaw (the capital was inhabited by most Russians). In fact, information from the city was telegraphed for the newspaper by its correspondents. Since strict censorship prohibited any explicit expression of opinions on the government’s politics (let alone criticism of its action), these reports mostly concerned everyday life, social affairs, cultural events, economic issues and city reforms. The press quite often constituted the only source of knowledge on Poles and Polish matters in the Russian Empire – hence, it shaped the public opinion on the Polish nation.