1900s: Extra-marital affairs and divorce are social taboos, often resulting in the social ostracization of offending parties.

1990s: Over half of all marriages are believed to result in divorce.

1900s: Russian government is ruled by a monar chy, resulting in vast inequalities in the distribution of wealth and resources.

1990s: After over 70 years of Communist rule, Russia institutes a free-market, capitalist economy. Economic difficulties continue.