15 Culture Shock in the U.S.: realia and artifacts

When Russian-speaking immigrants start navigating life in the United States, understanding the nuances of everyday life can greatly ease their acculturation process. Whether it’s being surprised at the number of pickup trucks in many parts of the United States or trying to grasp the concept of tailgating, being familiar with these aspects not only enriches people’s interactions with Americans but also fosters a smoother transition into the American way of life.

Below, you’ll find a series of insights into various facets of American culture presented in a concise format. These highlights aim to spotlight concepts and artifacts that are particularly noteworthy for Russian speakers adjusting to their new environment. As our resource evolves, we’ll continue to expand on each of these topics, providing more detailed information to aid your understanding.

A similar collection for the Russian realia can be found here: It can be interesting to explore it too, to know what concepts are foreign or new to Americans who start living and working in Russian-speaking countries.