University of Latvia geographers in Siberia

Juris Zakis

Latvian Geographical Society

DOI: 10.22364/fg.20.1.5

Keywords: University of Latvia geographers, Siberia, expedition, research

Abstract

Latvian geographers have always had a thirst for exploration beyond the horizons. During the Soviet era, the Western horizon was limited by the USSR's borders. By contrast, the eastern horizon extended far into the vast and enigmatic land of Siberia, reaching the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In the 1960s and 1970s, driven by curiosity and a desire for adventure, many students from the from the Geography Faculty at the University of Latvia embarked on expeditions to various regions of Siberia, which left lasting impressions on them. Voldemars Popils was among the pioneers who ventured beyond the Urals in 1962, followed by Adolf Krauklis, who established an experimental geographical research station in central Siberia. The station gathered data on various landscape aspects, with students from across the Soviet Union contributing valuable information during summer fieldwork. Krauklis expanded his research beyond the station, exploring different regions of Siberia. After 1980, the focus shifted to the institute's staff members, and students were no longer invited due to safety concerns related to a nearby prison camp. Nevertheless, Krauklis continued his research, becoming a respected scientist both within the Soviet Union and internationally. After the restoration of Latvia's independence, he returned and became a professor at the University of Latvia. The experiences in Siberia profoundly impacted the geographers, forging a deep kinship among those who followed their hearts to that distant land.