Mastering Twentieth Century Russian History

By Norman Lowe

This book is a detailed yet clear introduction to the Russian Revolutions and the rise and fall of the Soviet Union. The author makes full use of the recent research since Gorbachev's Glasnost, and surveys the different interpretations of Russian history. Each chapter begins with a brief summary of events and a list of the main points of debate among historians, and ends with a recommended reading list.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0333963075
• ISBN13: 9780333963074
• Release Date: September 2002
• Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
• Length: 496 Pages
• Weight: 1.74 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.2" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

First rate study aid.

Norman Lowe has managed to pack this book with a wealth of information, no easy task considering the size of the subject. He has started with a useful glossary of important terms followed by an equally useful chronology of all the important events during this period. In the main body of this book Lowe examines the major historiographical debates around this era and looks at some of the controversies that have arisen. Major figures such as Tsar Nicholas and Lenin through to Yeltsin and Putin are examined and their actions discussed. The text is divided into easily navigated chapters, which in turn are subdivided into topics making it easy to find any particular subject you may wish to look at. The author has also included an extensive, in depth list of further texts for the reader wishing to take their studies further. Lowe has a writing style that is easy to read with no heavy prose to bore the reader. Coupled with his extensive use of primary source material, photo's, maps and charts, he has produced a book that is not only an invaluable study aid but is also a pleasure to read. Although primarily aimed at the undergraduate and `A' level student this book should also appeal to the casual reader with an interest in Russian history. This is an excellent text and well worth purchasing.