Today marks a subtle yet significant date in the context of modern Russian-American relations. Exactly 155 years ago, in August 1867, a group of Americans arrived in Crimea on the steamboat "Quaker City." Among them was journalist Samuel Clemens, who later became known as Mark Twain.

The future writer described his impressions of the trip around the peninsula in letters sent to the editorial office. These letters formed the basis of his book "The Innocents Abroad, or The New Pilgrims' Progress."

At that time, Sevastopol had not yet recovered from the Crimean War, and Mark Twain noted that "Pompeii is much better preserved." Yalta and its surroundings reminded him of the Sierra Nevada.

On August 26, the travelers were received by Emperor Alexander II, who was resting in Livadia. On behalf of the American guests, Mark Twain wrote a formal greeting to the emperor. He noted: "America owes much to Russia. It is indebted to Russia in many respects, especially for its unwavering friendship during its great trials... We do not doubt for a moment that the gratitude of Russia and its sovereign lives and will live in the hearts of Americans."