9781422285893

INTRODUCTION S prawling from the Baltic Sea to the Bering Strait, the land of Russia occupies a grand place on the world’s stage geographically, politically, and culturally. Its dramatic shifts in landscape encompass flat, grassy steppes and the stunning peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, dense hardwood forests, and the frozen wilds of Siberia. Throughout its long history Russia has assimilated ideas from various parts of the world, including Western Europe and the Byzantine Empire. This plus its diverse array of ethnic and religious groups all contribute to a unique national culture. Like the epic scale of its countryside, Russia’s sociopolitical history is one of extremes. It has seen monarchial dynasties, wars, and violent revolutions. Its experiment with Communism was born of high ideals of the equality of man, yet today it is the most economically imbalanced nation on earth. Despite this, many of the Russian people remain hopeful for their country’s future. They know they have a rich if complex heritage from which to draw many lessons. Their ability to embrace different ideologies is what gives them their collective strength. To journey through the history of Russia is to witness the ambitions, struggles, and successes of an endlessly fascinating people.

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INTRODUCTION