BBC Travel
For nearly 30 years, part of Sonoma was ruled by Tsarist Russia, and it played a pivotal – if little-known – role in shaping the US.

TL;DR
- A part of Sonoma was under Tsarist Russian rule for nearly 30 years.
- This period played a significant and influential role in shaping the US.
- The historical impact is described as pivotal but little-known.