pomor

Pomor refers to the historical inhabitants of the Arctic coast of Russia, primarily in the Arkhangelsk Oblast and parts of the Murmansk Oblast. They were predominantly of Russian ethnicity and lived in small, isolated coastal settlements. Their livelihood was deeply tied to the sea, relying heavily on fishing, sealing, and whale hunting for survival. The Pomors developed unique maritime traditions and shipbuilding techniques suited to the harsh Arctic environment. They were known for their resilience, resourcefulness, and a distinct dialect of Russian.

The Pomor culture flourished from the 17th century onwards, driven by trade routes that extended to the White Sea and beyond. They engaged in commerce with Norway, exchanging goods like grain and manufactured items for fish and furs. This trade fostered a sense of cultural exchange and even influenced their language and customs. The isolation of their settlements, while preserving their unique way of life, also meant they had limited access to mainland resources and faced significant challenges from the extreme climate.

In the 20th century, the Pomor way of life underwent profound changes. Soviet policies led to collectivization, forced resettlement, and the decline of traditional economic activities. Many Pomor communities diminished or disappeared entirely. Today, there is a renewed interest in preserving Pomor heritage and identity, with efforts focused on documenting their history, language, and cultural practices. While the distinct Pomor community as it once existed is largely gone, their legacy as a resilient Arctic people persists.