Tambov was originally founded as a fortress in the 17th century to protect Russia’s southern borders. Over the next centuries the citizens of Tambov and the surrounding areas gained a reputation for being hardworking. They also became known for their independence and rebellious nature, which was most famously demonstrated during the Tambov Rebellion against the Bolsheviks. The city has adopted a wolf as it symbol due to the Russian phrase “A Tambov wolf is your comrade” (“Тамбовский волк тебе товарищ”) which is said to show your distrust in the person you are talking to.