Dynamics of network and population of the cities on the Volga River (1897–2010)

Abstract

The dynamics of the population of cities situated on the banks of the Volga River from 1897 to 2010, and the causes of this dynamics are analyzed. Typology of cities by the dynamics of the population in 1897– 2010 and in 1989–2010 is compiled. The peak of population was reached in the 1980s in connection with economic development. Cities were ranked by population size for census date. It is shown that during the 20th century there was a signifi cant redistribution of the ranks of cities. Regional centers, as well as the new industrial cities, were growing faster. Since the 1990s, many cities began to decrease the population. Further processes of depopulation and stagnation will lead to the degradation of the framework of urban settlement patternof Volga area.