Local identity and self-identity of residents of northern Russian cities of Arkhangelsk and Severodvinski

Abstract

Local population survey based on specially developed questionnaire was held to study local identity of Arkhangelsk and Severodvinsk in the Arkhangelsk region (Russian North) from 2000 till 2015. Aquired folklore and speech data allow us to analyze Arkhangelsk and Severodvinsk citizens’ local identity distinctive features. The held research allows one to make a conclusion that the Arkhangelsk and Severodvinsk citizens have their own developed local identity, but with different specific characteristics. The local population has their own images of themselves and other people/neighbours. Arkhangelsk was founded as a traditional town, Severodvinsk – during country urbanization processes. Severodvinsk inhabitants have double or triple identification more often than Arkhangelsk citizens.