Ethan Pollock

Former Short-Term Scholar, Kennan Institute

Professional Affiliation

Assistant Professor, Department of History, Syracuse University

Wilson Center Project

Bathing in Russian Culture: A Hisotry of the Bania and its Role in Russian Politics and Identity

Project Summary

Bathing is a communal activity integrating personal hygiene and public health with religious rituals, relaxation, long conversations, drinking and business deals. For Russians, the bania is a clear marker of identity.