THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY IN PODOLSK PROVINCE IN THE POST-REFORM PERIOD (1862–1872)

The article is devoted to the analysis of the development of animal husbandry in the Podolsk province in the post-reform period (1862–1872). The paper conducts a comprehensive study of the socio-economic transformations that took place in the agricultural sector of the region after the abolition of serfdom. Attention is focused on changes in the structuring of the livestock industry, adaptation of farms to new conditions of functioning and the impact of these processes on the overall development of the region. The study is based on the analysis of statistical data and documentary materials of that time. It is found that after the reform, although there was a slight increase in the number of cattle, sheep and pigs, this does not indicate an increase in the marketability of livestock. Livestock farming was in a state of disrepair, and was carried out mainly by grandfatherly methods and to meet their own needs. The reform of 1861, instead of solving the land issue, further complicated it. The lack of pastures and hayfields hindered the development of the livestock industry. There was not much demand for livestock products in Podolsk province. The uprising of 1863–1864 and the new redistribution of land had an even more negative impact on the industry. Particular attention is paid to the role of local peculiarities, such as climatic conditions and geographical location, in shaping the specifics of the livestock industry in Podolsk province. The issue of feed and pasture availability is also highlighted.