Zaimka

A zaimka is a Russian term that historically referred to a plot of land granted by a landlord to a peasant or group of peasants for their use. This usage was common during the feudal period in Russia. The zaimka was typically a piece of land that was previously uncultivated or abandoned, and it was granted in exchange for labor or rent. The size and terms of the zaimka varied depending on the agreement between the landlord and the peasant. Often, the zaimka was located on the outskirts of the main village or estate, and it was intended to provide additional resources for the peasants.

The concept of the zaimka was closely tied to the system of serfdom, where peasants were bound to the land and to their landlords. While the zaimka provided a means for peasants to supplement their subsistence, it did not grant them ownership of the land. After the abolition of serfdom in 1861, the system of land distribution changed, and the traditional zaimka system gradually faded. However, the term "zaimka" can still be encountered in historical contexts or in rural areas to refer to a small parcel of land, often used for gardening or as a summer dwelling. The term can also sometimes refer to a remote or isolated dwelling.