The role of waterways in the economic development of the Saratov Volga region in the second half of the XIX - early XX centuries

The article discusses the role of waterways in the economic development of the Saratov Volga region in the second half of the XIX - early XX centuries. The river ports used for winter parking of boats and ships are described. The author considers the showings of commodity turnover executed along the Volga, the quantitative ratio of various goods, dominated by agricultural products. The paper deals with the features of interaction between state authorities and business community in the organization of cargo and passenger transportation along the Volga river. Conclusion about if this cooperation was mutually beneficial is made. The costs of transportation depending on various criteria are compared.