Soviet Politics 1917-1991

by Mary McAuley

Now available in paperback, this timely work offers an authoritative and lively history of the entire spectrum of Soviet politics, from the rise of Lenin and the October Revolution of 1917 to the emergence of the Commonwealth of Independent States. It discusses in fascinating detail how Lenin's Communist party transformed the Tsarist empire, why Stalin's massive program to industrialize was coupled with one of the most horrific terror campaigns in history, and what we can expect from this erstwhile superpower in the years ahead. Based on extensive research and first-hand knowledge of the Soviet system, it offers a lucid and stimulating analysis of the developments which first sustained, then finally undermined, the Soviet state, pinpointing all the key political developments--revolution, state-building, party rule, terror, Nazi invasion, the Cold War, and the recent elections--and examining their significance in an especially well-wrought historical context. Timely, cogent,
and comprehensive, Soviet Politics helps readers make sense of developments in the former USSR since 1985, showing how and why the system fell apart. It will interest anyone wanting a fuller understanding of current events, and their consequences for the world as a whole.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Politics, Russia, Political Science, Soviet Union

123 pages, Paperback

First published November 12, 1992

Reviews

[Jessh093 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great, concise and straight to the point book on Soviet politics that doesn't take any prisoners! Should be a read for all students of Russian politics, especially as it is actually enjoyable! Also, it is very fast paced and is a great size to keep as a on-hand copy if you need it for classes etc.

[Patrick Powers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good. Bit outdated. Awaiting sequel.

[Jan Jasič · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book. Published in 1992 so many aspects could not be answered for they were still in progress. The book focuses only on politics and reader is expected to have a basic knowledge in other adjacent fields of study, ie economics, history..
quite short book and recommended to those seeking answers for the motives of the political leaders of the era.

[Peter Vegel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Concise overview of trends and forces that made the USSR. But given the scale and complexity of this history, I would have preferred reading a more comprehensive and structured account, also with more human feel to it (this book felt very abstract at times).

[Dr. David Steele · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful overview but dated.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to revisit this one day for fun, when I have more time to spend on it.

[Charles M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poli Sci 334

[bailey! · Rating 3 out of 5]

had to read for class