The basic framework of settlement of the USSR: origins and configuration.

Abstract

The concept of a basic framework of settlement consisting of the largest cities in the USSR is developed. "The present framework shaped by cities over 100,000 and by cities over 500,000 is analyzed in terms of clusters of concentration and outlying centers. Changes in the framework over time are discussed in terms of varying sets of the 50 largest cities in various stages over the last 80 years."