摘要:On the basis of archival sources, pre-revolutionary periodicals, folklore materials, memories, modern historiography and taking into account the relevant queries of the Russian society the authors analyze the impact of the First World War on the peripheral region of Russia – the Urals. The study is based on anthropologically oriented approach, which allows understanding various aspects of the social life in the rear during the war. Industrial contribution of the Urals to the defense of the country is well-known. The article is devoted to less explored issues: assessment of public sentiment and the level of self-organization, the features of social life in wartime, the role of the Russian Orthodox Church and the clergy in public life in the Ural cities, the role of public institutions and behavior of socio-professional groups. The authors conclude that, despite the Urals’ remoteness from the battlefield, the First World War had a profound impact on the life of the region, which made a significant human, economic, and art contribution to the battle against the enemy.