I love Russian people. I have traveled to Russia several times, had Russian friends , neighbors or just knew Russian people and have always admired them. Well, most of them at least.

One thing that had always struck me about them is their innate intelligence. I don't think that comes from them reading so much, I believe they are just born with it. The average Russian has above the average intelligence and I don't mean IQ score, I mean their ability to perceive and interpret the world around them. Don't try to lie to a Russian, he will see trough you. Most Russians will figure it out pretty quick no matter what the situation is.

I spent one month in Moscow as an exchange student and observed how much they like to read. I mean they READ, everywhere. They read on their way to the subway, waiting for the train, in the train, sitting, standing, they keep on reading. Their small apartments are cramped with books which they keep or exchange for more books. They don't just read the newspaper, oh no, they read everything - Russian, French and American literature, philosophy, science, history, foreign languages, current events. Most of them will know what is happening not only in Russia but pretty much around the whole world.

Russian literature is very deep as it reflects the complexity, intelligence, love, hate and ambiguity of the people. If you have not yet read world literature, I suggest not starting with the Russian novels, as they may overwhelm you. Once you read a Russian novel, you will never forget it.

Another thing I'd like to mention is how good looking Russians are. Most of them always look classy (they do like expensive things), but even if they can't afford it they try to have style. I have not been around the whole world but I need to say that Moscow has the best looking men and women (I was looking at the men) from all the places that I have been. And I walked sightseeing Moscow a lot, my host Natasha wanted to make sure that I saw everything.

Well, that will be a poor hub on the Russians if I don't say that they sure like to drink, a lot. They know how to party and have fun "Na zdorovje"

A great hub on Russian history you can find here  -  http://hubpages.com/hub/Russia-History