"Big Soviet Encyclopedia" (often mentioned under the abbreviated name "BSE") is a publication that has become one of the symbols of the cultural life of the Soviet Union. It was first published in 1926 and continued to be replenished with new volumes until 1990. This multi-volume edition is one of the world's largest encyclopedic projects, which covers a wide range of topics from various fields of knowledge - from science and technology to culture, history and geography. "BSE" contained thousands of articles, illustrations, maps and tables that broadened readers' horizons and created unique reference material. The publication served as a source of knowledge for a wide range of readers - from students and scientists to schoolchildren and just curious people. The "Great Soviet Encyclopedia" became a benchmark for knowledge of the world and an important component of public education in the Soviet Union.