The Republic of Belarus is a country in eastern Europe. The state of Belarus was first formed during the Middle Ages around the town of Polotsk on the River Dvina. During the 13th century Belarus became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, before being joined with Poland in 1569 and then becoming part of the Russian Empire during the 18th century. In 1918, during the Bolshevik revolution in Russia, Belarus declared its independence, but was not recognised by the international community and was established as the Belarussian Soviet Socialist Republic in 1919, being one of the four founding members of the USSR. In 1991 with the disolution of the USSR Belarus became independent and changed its name to the Republic of Belarus, this time recognised by the international community. In 1995 a referendum was held and the people voted to once again strengthen ties with Russia. Research Belarus
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Research Belarus