Russia is
my homeland

Peoples of Russia

Izhorians

Their self-designations are Izhora, Karyalyayn, Izuri, Izhera, Izheryane. In 2000, by a decree of the Government of the Russian Federation they were given the status of native small-numbered people.

Language

The Izhorian language belongs to the Baltic-Finnish subgroup of the Finno-Ugric group of the Ural family. The language has four dialects: Soykinsky (on the Soykinsky peninsula), Lower Luga, which is characterized with the presence of a Votic substrate, Eastern, or Kheva (in the Lomonosov district) and Oredezh.

Dispersion

Currently the Izhorians mostly live on the territory of the Kingisepp district of the Leningrad region.

Traditional occupations

The main economic occupation was agriculture. They grew rye, oats, barley, rutabaga, cabbage, since 19^th century also potatoes. The Izhorians raised large cattle, sheep, pigs and chicken. Collective cattle grazing with a hired shepherd is popular. Fishing was widespread, including ice fishing. Various seasonal work was well-developed. Cabbing was considered to be the most profitable trade. They often got themselves hired for various agricultural works both at manorial homesteads and by rich peasants in the Saint Petersburg governorate.

Food

The basis of their diet in the 19^th century was sour rye bread and various gruels (barley, rye), also rutabaga, from the second half of the 19^th century also potatoes. They made oatmeal flour from oats. Starch drinks and dairy products (curdled milk, curd) were widespread. On festive occasions they made pies and meat dishes. Beer was a favorite drink.