The Soviet Railways, officially known as the Soviet Union's railway system, was a vast network that played a crucial role in the transportation of goods and people across the USSR. Established in the early 20th century, it expanded significantly during the Stalin era, connecting major cities and remote regions, facilitating industrial growth and military logistics. The railway system was state-owned and operated by the Ministry of Railways, which managed its extensive infrastructure, including tracks, stations, and rolling stock. By the 1980s, it became one of the largest railway networks in the world, reflecting the Soviet Union's emphasis on heavy industry and centralized planning.