"Russian Encyclopedia" had as its task to give the Russian reader such an encyclopedic dictionary that would combine a small volume with completeness and richness of content, would have compression and accuracy of presentation, and, taking up relatively little space, would quickly and possibly comprehensively orient the reader on those issues that he needs to be resolved. The greatest attention in the Russian Encyclopedia is paid to Russia, the Slavic world and the Middle and Far East adjacent to Russia, as well as coverage of those issues that are most interesting for the Russian reader in connection with current political, social and economic problems. "Russian Encyclopedia" is equipped with a large number of drawings, portraits, drawings and maps, characterized by high artistic performance. Initially, it was supposed to release an encyclopedia in 20 volumes, but the publication ceased on volume 11 on the letter "M."