Understanding Soviet Politics: The Perspective Of Russian History

The Russian Revolution of 1917 brought about changes desired by the Bolsheviks, but many failed to materialize. The Russian heritage has adapted to the challenges facing modernizing societies, and Russia's past tells us about the present role of the USSR in world affairs. This collection of essays examines the major issues shaping our understanding of Soviet politics, comparing the USSR to a wide range of societies and discussing the differences between the foreign policy objectives of Czarist Russia and the Soviet Union. It also includes a personal interview with Nikita Khrushchev.

Format: Hardback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Russian Revolution of 1917 brought about significant changes desired by the Bolsheviks, but many of these changes failed to materialize. The Russian heritage has adapted to the challenges facing all modernizing societies, but it also tells us about the present role of the USSR in world affairs.

The traditional heritage of the Russian empire has played a complex role in shaping Soviet society. On the one hand, it provided a foundation of institutions and values that have been adapted to the needs of political development, economic growth, and social integration. On the other hand, it hindered the adaptation of Soviet society to the contemporary world by reinforcing traditional hierarchies and values.

The modernization of the USSR was a complex process that involved the interaction of tradition and modernity. The Russian heritage of institutions and values has been adapted since 1861 to the needs of political development, economic growth, and social integration. This adaptation has been driven by the desire to modernize the economy, improve social welfare, and increase political stability.

Comparisons can be made with a wide range of societies, including those in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The book examines the past and present relations of Russia/USSR with the outside world in the context of universal societal changes. It discusses the differences between the foreign policy objectives of Czarist Russia and the Soviet Union, the degree to which Russia/USSR has been able to influence other countries through means other than military power, and the origins of the cold war.

The book concludes with a personal interview with Nikita Khrushchev, a discussion that provides insight into the thoughts and experiences of one of the most influential leaders of the Soviet Union. Khrushchev discusses his views on the Russian heritage, the role of the USSR in world affairs, and the challenges facing modernizing societies.

In conclusion, the Russian Revolution of 1917 brought about significant changes desired by the Bolsheviks, but many of these changes failed to materialize. The Russian heritage has adapted to the challenges facing all modernizing societies, but it also tells us about the present role of the USSR in world affairs. The book provides a comprehensive exploration of these issues, examining the major issues that shape our understanding of Soviet politics.

Weight: 760g
Dimension: 229 x 144 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367212704