The book tells about the role of immigrants from the Baltic lands in Russian history from the beginning of the 18th century to the beginning of the 20th century, about the importance of the Northern capital in the formation of the Estonian people, in its social and political development from the German province of Estonia to the state of Estonia. The information provided by the author makes it possible to objectively assess the contribution of Estonians to the economy, and the culture of the Russian Empire, and the positive mutual influence of the two nations in the material and spiritual spheres. The book's treatment of historical events is often at odds with generally accepted historical tradition. The style of presentation is light, ironic, which undoubtedly distinguishes this book from boring science-like studies.