River crossings in the USSR transportation system in war time (the case of the Lower Volga during the Great Patriotic War)

Abstract

The paper deals with Volga river crossings as a vital means of transportation during the Great Patriotic War. The information on river crossings work before and duringthe Battle of Stalingrad are summarized, systematized and supplemented. The changes intheir number, location and work in fighting are traced. The results of Volga crossings work are established. The conclusion on Volga crossings vital importance for evacuation as well is made.

Keywords

• river transport
• crossings
• transportation
• transport links
• the volga
• the battle of stalingrad
• the great patriotic war