Perm

Oblast (region) of the west-central Russian Federation; the Komi-Permiak Autonomous Okrug forms part of the oblast; area 160,600 sq km/62,008 sq mi; population (1996) 3,009,000 (77% urban). There are engineering, metallurgical, chemical, coalmining, and wood processing industries. Grain and flax are grown, and there is dairy farming.

Geography Perm is situated on the western slopes of the Ural Mountains and the adjacent plain. The region is crossed by the River Kama. The area is extensively forested, and has large deposits of coal, oil, salt, and gas. Cities include Perm, Berezniki, Lysva, Solikamsk, Kizel, and Gubakha.

Economy Perm has engineering, metallurgical, chemical, coalmining, and wood processing industries; hydroelectric power is generated. Grain and flax are grown, and there is some dairy farming.

History The area was annexed by Muscovy in 1472.