Burlak

A burlak (Russian: бурла́к, IPA: [bʊrˈlak]) was a river boat or barge puller in the Russian Empire. It was a seasonal occupation.

This article is about an occupation. For surname, see Burlak (surname).

Burlaks as an occupation appeared in Russia at the end of 16th century and beginning of the 17th century. With the expansion of freight-hauling, the number of burlaks increased. With the proliferation of steamships the demand in burlaks diminished and they basically disappeared by the end of the 19th century.

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