Paul Bushkovitch > Quotes

“Smallpox could not be eradicated because the number of trained vaccinators was tiny, and many peasants hid in the forest from the vaccinators, convinced that the vaccination was the mark of Antichrist.(page 218)”
― Paul Bushkovitch, A Concise History of Russia

“Alcoholism and heavy drinking were the norm: on Sundays in many villages the township courts did not meet because the male population was too drunk for serious deliberations.(page 218)”
― Paul Bushkovitch, A Concise History of Russia

“First a Muslim came from Volga Bulgaria and seemed very persuasive until Vladimir learned of the prohibition on alcoholic drinks. "The Joy of Rus is drinking," he told the Bulgarian, and sent him away.”
― Paul Bushkovitch, A Concise History of Russia