Across the Revolutionary Divide
Russia and the USSR, 1861-1945
Blackwell History of Russia
1. Edition July 2010
296 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Short Description
Across the Revolutionary Divide: Russia, 1861-1945 presents an ambitious interpretive account of Russian history from the abolition of serfdom by Alexander II to the end of World War II. By taking into account seven fundamental themes--politics, society, nations, modernization, beliefs, world, and culture - the author recounts the turbulent series of events, influences, reforms, and revolutions that transformed the vast country from a backward society into one of the world's two great "super-powers." With its unique thematic approach and careful balance of political, economic, and cultural issues, Across the Revolutionary Divide is a thought-provoking overview of one of the most fascinating periods of Russian history.
Across the Revolutionary Divide: Russia and the USSR 1861-1945 offers a broad interpretive account of Russian history from the emancipation of the serfs to the end of World War II.
* Provides a coherent overview of Russia's development from 1861 through to 1945
* Reflects the latest scholarship by taking a thematic approach to Russian history and bridging the 'revolutionary divide' of 1917
* Covers political, economic, cultural, and everyday life issues during a period of major changes in Russian history
* Addresses throughout the diversity of national groups, cultures, and religions in the Russian Empire and USSR
* Shows how the radical policies adopted after 1917 both changed Russia and perpetuated an economic and political rigidity that continues to influence modern society
Series Editor's Preface.
Acknowledgements.
Introduction.
1. Politics.
2. Society.
3. Nations.
4. Modernization.
5. Belief.
6. World.
7. Culture.
Conclusion.
Timeline.
Notes.
Select Bibliography.
Index.
"On the whole, there are many positives in this work. The thematic approach makes it clear that certain characteristics were present in both tsarist and Soviet times, and that significant continuities were evident within the political and social aspects of revolutionary Russia." (Revolutionary Russia, 2 December 2011)
"Ted Weeks's book is an excellent and well-judged account of this crucial period. He presents the history of Russia and the Soviet Union in a way that will challenge students and make them think hard." (The Russian Review, 1 July 2011) "Recommended. Most levels/libraries." (Choice, 1 May 2011)