Urban Population of Nizhny Novgorod in First Half of 1920s: Leisure Practices

Abstract

This study examines the leisure activities of Nizhny Novgorod residents during the NEP era. Various forms of urban leisure and their connections to state ideology are characterized. A total of 31 sources were analyzed, including legislative sources, statistics, and periodicals. Sources included articles from criminal and administrative codes, statistical data, and Nizhny Novgorod press. An overview of Nizhny Novgorod periodicals from 1921-1924 is provided. Results of a comparative analysis of legislative materials, statistical data, and periodicals are presented. Emphasis is placed on the ways and methods of shaping urban culture in line with state ideology. The issue of deviant behavior among city dwellers and its causes is raised. It is highlighted that new holidays aimed to replace religious celebrations. The study shows that the values of the urban community were influenced by ideological beliefs and spread through new leisure forms. It is proven that the structure of urban festivities contributed to the establishment of new societal values. The authors conclude on the significance of organized leisure in creating a socio-cultural urban environment. The role of periodicals in popularizing urban leisure forms is demonstrated. The relevance of the study lies in exploring the connection between ideology and the organization of urban leisure.

Keywords

• new economic policy
• urban leisure
• soviet city ideology
• cultural and educational work