A New Imperial History of Northern Eurasia, 600-1700: From Russian to Global History

A New Imperial History of Northern Eurasia,600-1700, presents a modern analytical approach to the problem of human diversity as a fundamental social condition. It explores how the mutual interactions of local socio-political arrangements and attempts to integrate with one of the universal cultures of the time caused unintended consequences, leading to the division of the landmass between several regional powers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A New Imperial History of Northern Eurasia,600-1700 presents a fresh perspective on the study and understanding of the spaces, societies, and institutions that thrived in the region of present-day Northern Eurasia. Rather than presenting a linear narrative of the evolution of a specific present-day state or people, this book adopts a modern analytical approach to the issue of human diversity as a fundamental social condition. Through cooperation and conflict, various efforts to manage diversity have led to the emergence of new ideas, practices, and institutions, either from scratch or through significant transformations. Essentially, this book tells the story of individuals and societies responding creatively to their natural and social environments in unique historical contexts.

This volume delves into the intricate interplay of several local socio-political arrangements and attempts to integrate with one of the universal cultures of the time, resulting in a series of unintended consequences. As a result, the vast expanse of land, stretching from the Carpathian Mountains in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east, from the Polar Circle in the north to the steppe belt in the south, was divided among several regional powers. Despite their inability to overpower each other through military force, they found themselves engaged in a zero-sum game until the uneven development of modern state institutions tipped the balance in favor of one of them—Russia.

This comprehensive historical account offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of power, culture, and identity formation in Northern Eurasia during the early modern period. By examining the interactions between local societies, regional powers, and universal cultures, the book sheds light on the processes that shaped the region's history and contributed to the development of modern states. It also raises important questions about the nature of diversity, resilience, and change in historical contexts, and provides a framework for further research and analysis in this field.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350196797