The document provides an overview of geography, culture, and history in Russia. It notes that Russia spans 11 time zones and has diverse terrain that forms the border between Europe and Asia. It also describes Russia's large population, with over 80% living in western Russia, as well as the country's majority Orthodox Christian religion and cultural importance of music and art. Finally, it summarizes that Russia gained independence on June 12, 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union.