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Rasputin: The Untold Story
Based on new sources—the definitive biography of Rasputin, with revelations about his life, death, and involvement with the Romanovs A century after his death, Grigory Rasputin remains the Russian peasant with hypnotic eyes who befriended Tsar Nicholas II and helped destroy the Russian Empire, but the truth about his strange life has never fully been told. Written by the world's leading authority on Rasputin, this new biography draws on previously closed Soviet archives to offer new information on Rasputin's relationship with Empress Alexandra, sensational revelations about his sexual conquests, a re-examination of his murder, and more. Synthesizing archival sources with published documents, memoirs, and other studies of Rasputin into a single, comprehensive work, The Untold Story will correct a century's worth of misconception and error about the life and death of the famous Siberian mystic and healer and the decline and fall of Imperial Russia.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published October 24, 1989
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
November 21, 2016
This book has everything you want to know about the life of Grigori Rasputin (1869-1916). The author starts from his birth on 21 January, 1869, in Pokrovskoe, Siberia. We now know how he died; at least most of the details are clear. So if his life and subsequent assassination interest you, I heartily recommend this book. The author presents in a clear and concise fashion information on conflicting views as well as the myths spun around this controversial man – a man of God, a mystic, a soothsayer, a charlatan, a lecherous sex fanatic, a drunk.
His influence over the last Russian Tsar and Tsarina, Nicholas II and Alexandra, is fully documented. The book follows the events of the First World War and Rasputin’s ever growing influence over the Tsar and Tsarina and the Russian government. Understanding the rapid succession of ministers under the inept Nicholas during the years 1915-1917 is not easy to follow. Political intrigues and corruption are the rule, not the exception. For a Westerner just the names themselves are difficult to keep straight.What is delivered is NOT easy reading, but in my view the presentation of the known and conflicting facts is relatively clear.
Do NOT listen to the audiobook narrated by Curtis Sisco. He reads too damn fast, even if his words are clear. You either have to lower the speed and listen to an unnatural drawl or you must frequently rewind. Taking notes while you listen is almost impossible, unless you should happen to be a proficient stenographer…which I am not! I scribbled as fast as I could the most essential points. Guessing at the spelling of Russian names is also a problem. My advice? Read the book, don’t listen. You will get much more out of it.
His influence over the last Russian Tsar and Tsarina, Nicholas II and Alexandra, is fully documented. The book follows the events of the First World War and Rasputin’s ever growing influence over the Tsar and Tsarina and the Russian government. Understanding the rapid succession of ministers under the inept Nicholas during the years 1915-1917 is not easy to follow. Political intrigues and corruption are the rule, not the exception. For a Westerner just the names themselves are difficult to keep straight.What is delivered is NOT easy reading, but in my view the presentation of the known and conflicting facts is relatively clear.
Do NOT listen to the audiobook narrated by Curtis Sisco. He reads too damn fast, even if his words are clear. You either have to lower the speed and listen to an unnatural drawl or you must frequently rewind. Taking notes while you listen is almost impossible, unless you should happen to be a proficient stenographer…which I am not! I scribbled as fast as I could the most essential points. Guessing at the spelling of Russian names is also a problem. My advice? Read the book, don’t listen. You will get much more out of it.
July 7, 2014
Having read many books about Rasputin, I am not sure that this book really uncovers too much that has not been speculated on or discussed before. However, the author certainly does write a very readable account of Rasputin's life and had access to documents and archives previously closed to researchers. This does mean that he can answer questions, such as the actual date of Rasputin's birth and there are many letters he can quote from which give a flavour of the kind of man Rasputin was. This is really fascinating, for there are few figures in history which have evoked such a passionate response from people - positive and negative - both during their lifetime and after their death. Rasputin, "the mad monk", the lover of the Tsarina, the man who ruled the Tsar, the miracle worker, the healer, the charlatan, the hypnotist, the drunk, the lecher and the fraud. He was called many things in his time and this is a good and balanced account of his life, which tries to uncover what he was really like.
Rasputin was, of course, born a peasant and remained proud of that fact all his life. He was virtually illiterate, learning only the basics of reading and writing in adulthood and expected to spend his life in the small village he was born and raised in. Instead, as the author vividly writes, when (admittedly not totally from choice) he went on a pilgrimage he was "leaving the confines of a small Siberian village and stepping onto the pages of history." It was in the Siberian monastery of Saint Nicholas where he was converted and the monks gave him a crash course in reading and writing. He claimed to have a vision on his return to the village and left for another pilgrimage, although his father scoffed that he, "became a pilgrim out of laziness." It is clear that even his own family suspected his motives and he was constantly dogged by suggestions that he was not sincere, that he has joined a sect, or that he was in league against the Church.
Arriving in St Petersburg in 1903, there is little doubt that Rasputin was ambitious and used people to open doors to the socially well connected in the city. However, it is not as clear cut as it first seems and although Rasputin took money from his followers, he also gave much away. The book obviously concentrates on his relationship with the Tsar and Tsarina once he was introduced to them and the reliance Alexandra felt for "Our Friend" once she was convinced he could heal her son, Alexei. The disastrous combination of a weak Tsar, the guilt of Alexandra, the hemophilia that affected their son and heir and the way Rasputin influenced political decisions, led to him being blamed for virtually all of Russia's problems. The author carefully peels away the myths and looks at how much power Rasputin actually had and what influence he played on events.
Overall, this is a really interesting read, and a fantastic addition to the books about this remarkable man. Reading reports about his drunken, debauched behaviour it is frankly incredible he lived as long as he did. Still, he swaggered through society, taking petitions and bribes, sending out notes to all and sundry (such as one given to an aspiring opera singer to hand to an official - "fix it up, she's all right" it reads simply) and bragging about his relationship with the "Old Girl" and his influence with the Tsar. In a country that was out of control, with Nicholas making disastrous political decisions, a war dragging on and a constantly changing stream of politicians coming in and out of office, it was clear that Rasputin's notoriety was simply too much to be accepted. Again, the book looks at his assassination, who was responsible and what results Rasputin's death had. If you are interested in who Rasputin was, this book will answer your questions. It is amazing that such a man, who by rights should have stayed on the land and lived and died unknown, is still being talked about today. I think he would be proud of that fact somehow.
Rasputin was, of course, born a peasant and remained proud of that fact all his life. He was virtually illiterate, learning only the basics of reading and writing in adulthood and expected to spend his life in the small village he was born and raised in. Instead, as the author vividly writes, when (admittedly not totally from choice) he went on a pilgrimage he was "leaving the confines of a small Siberian village and stepping onto the pages of history." It was in the Siberian monastery of Saint Nicholas where he was converted and the monks gave him a crash course in reading and writing. He claimed to have a vision on his return to the village and left for another pilgrimage, although his father scoffed that he, "became a pilgrim out of laziness." It is clear that even his own family suspected his motives and he was constantly dogged by suggestions that he was not sincere, that he has joined a sect, or that he was in league against the Church.
Arriving in St Petersburg in 1903, there is little doubt that Rasputin was ambitious and used people to open doors to the socially well connected in the city. However, it is not as clear cut as it first seems and although Rasputin took money from his followers, he also gave much away. The book obviously concentrates on his relationship with the Tsar and Tsarina once he was introduced to them and the reliance Alexandra felt for "Our Friend" once she was convinced he could heal her son, Alexei. The disastrous combination of a weak Tsar, the guilt of Alexandra, the hemophilia that affected their son and heir and the way Rasputin influenced political decisions, led to him being blamed for virtually all of Russia's problems. The author carefully peels away the myths and looks at how much power Rasputin actually had and what influence he played on events.
Overall, this is a really interesting read, and a fantastic addition to the books about this remarkable man. Reading reports about his drunken, debauched behaviour it is frankly incredible he lived as long as he did. Still, he swaggered through society, taking petitions and bribes, sending out notes to all and sundry (such as one given to an aspiring opera singer to hand to an official - "fix it up, she's all right" it reads simply) and bragging about his relationship with the "Old Girl" and his influence with the Tsar. In a country that was out of control, with Nicholas making disastrous political decisions, a war dragging on and a constantly changing stream of politicians coming in and out of office, it was clear that Rasputin's notoriety was simply too much to be accepted. Again, the book looks at his assassination, who was responsible and what results Rasputin's death had. If you are interested in who Rasputin was, this book will answer your questions. It is amazing that such a man, who by rights should have stayed on the land and lived and died unknown, is still being talked about today. I think he would be proud of that fact somehow.
April 15, 2016
I have had a long fascination and interest in Russian history and have come across Grigori Rasputin in a number of Non Fiction and Fiction books over the years and had always wanted to read a biography about this historical figure who became an influential figure in St. Petersburg especially after August 1915 when Tsar Nicholas took command of the army fighting in World War 1.
The author Joseph T. Fuhramann gives us an extraordinary account Using material from Soviet archives, particularly the correspondence of Tsar Nicholas II and his wife, Alexandra.
"Legend portrays Rasputin as the "Mad Monk" who rampaged through St. in an alcoholic haze, making love to scores of women. A symbol of excess and religious extremism, he was believed to hold a mysterious power, emanating from his hypnotic eyes, over Tsar Nicolas II and his family. The fact that he was neither mad nor a monk has not stopped scores of writers from repeating these and other bogus claims"
I was familiar with the story of Rasputin and the Ramanov family and how he was murdered but this account answered a lot of questions that I had about Rasputin's earlier life and his path to St. Petersburg. I found it extremely well researched, informative and well written.
The book gives an excellent insight into Rasputin's Siberian background and early years, his introduction to the Romanov Family and his ability to treat prince Alexia's condition of haemophilia which had doctors baffled. It also delves into Rasputin's unorthodox religious teachings, sexual practices and his relations with the Empress, including the rumours that they were lovers.
I was really interested to learn how he had so much power with decisions concerning political matters and the church.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy Non fiction and have an interest in Russian History.
The author Joseph T. Fuhramann gives us an extraordinary account Using material from Soviet archives, particularly the correspondence of Tsar Nicholas II and his wife, Alexandra.
"Legend portrays Rasputin as the "Mad Monk" who rampaged through St. in an alcoholic haze, making love to scores of women. A symbol of excess and religious extremism, he was believed to hold a mysterious power, emanating from his hypnotic eyes, over Tsar Nicolas II and his family. The fact that he was neither mad nor a monk has not stopped scores of writers from repeating these and other bogus claims"
I was familiar with the story of Rasputin and the Ramanov family and how he was murdered but this account answered a lot of questions that I had about Rasputin's earlier life and his path to St. Petersburg. I found it extremely well researched, informative and well written.
The book gives an excellent insight into Rasputin's Siberian background and early years, his introduction to the Romanov Family and his ability to treat prince Alexia's condition of haemophilia which had doctors baffled. It also delves into Rasputin's unorthodox religious teachings, sexual practices and his relations with the Empress, including the rumours that they were lovers.
I was really interested to learn how he had so much power with decisions concerning political matters and the church.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy Non fiction and have an interest in Russian History.
February 1, 2024
Excellent History!
March 12, 2013
This book draws upon government archives in Moscow and Siberia including police records, some church records and author Joseph Fuhrann's own work on the wartime letters of Nicholas and Alexandra which he had translated and published in the 1990's.
While Massie's "Nicholas and Alexandra" emphasizes Rasputin's alleged healing powers, Fuhrmann documents his rise to power. Despite his semi-literacy, questionable past, heavy drinking and many sexual encounters he rose from a Siberian peasant to the highest ranks in society by courting and protecting access to the Tsarina.
Alexandra's letters to Nicholas illustrate the extent of Rasputin's influence. She continually writes her husband of "Our Friend's" recommendations on government policy and high level appointments. Nicholas sometimes hesitated, but he usually deferred. While there are a few periods when Rasputin was out of favor (he was once sent back to Siberia) he knew how to manipulate the Tsarina. To defend her "staret" healer, Alexandra commissioned the book: "Russian Saints who were Holy Fools".
The Romanov's are clearly out on a limb with Rasputin's appointees. Those who care about Russia, the monarchy and their work as well as traditional bureaucrats are stunned. Many of these appointees led libertine lives, for instance, the Archbishop of Tobolsk was a known cross dresser (who had himself photographed in a coffin, no less) who held wild parties at his monastery. Another was rewarded for clearing Rasputin of charges in one of the investigations into his past. Rasputin saw that those who crossed him such as Bishop Hermogen and the monk Iliodor met bad ends. With the Tsar at his back, he stacked the church and parts of the government with those who would be loyal to him.
Fuhrmann shows how Rasputin's influence was creating unnecessary dissent in a country that needed to be united for war.
There is a good description of the murder and the murder night. While Fuhrmann cites other published sources, this was the first I had read of possible involvement of the British Secret Service. The circumstantial evidence pointing to participation of Oswald Rayner, a British agent, is hard to ignore.
There is an interesting account of lives of Rasputin's family and the key players in the aftermath of this death.
The book has a good index. The list of characters, places and terms is very helpful. There are fascinating photographs (particularly: Khioniya Guseva, his first attempted assassin; Rasputin with Bishop Hermogen and the monk Iliodor; and a triptych showing the changes in Rasputin from 1909-1913).
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this period of Russian history.
While Massie's "Nicholas and Alexandra" emphasizes Rasputin's alleged healing powers, Fuhrmann documents his rise to power. Despite his semi-literacy, questionable past, heavy drinking and many sexual encounters he rose from a Siberian peasant to the highest ranks in society by courting and protecting access to the Tsarina.
Alexandra's letters to Nicholas illustrate the extent of Rasputin's influence. She continually writes her husband of "Our Friend's" recommendations on government policy and high level appointments. Nicholas sometimes hesitated, but he usually deferred. While there are a few periods when Rasputin was out of favor (he was once sent back to Siberia) he knew how to manipulate the Tsarina. To defend her "staret" healer, Alexandra commissioned the book: "Russian Saints who were Holy Fools".
The Romanov's are clearly out on a limb with Rasputin's appointees. Those who care about Russia, the monarchy and their work as well as traditional bureaucrats are stunned. Many of these appointees led libertine lives, for instance, the Archbishop of Tobolsk was a known cross dresser (who had himself photographed in a coffin, no less) who held wild parties at his monastery. Another was rewarded for clearing Rasputin of charges in one of the investigations into his past. Rasputin saw that those who crossed him such as Bishop Hermogen and the monk Iliodor met bad ends. With the Tsar at his back, he stacked the church and parts of the government with those who would be loyal to him.
Fuhrmann shows how Rasputin's influence was creating unnecessary dissent in a country that needed to be united for war.
There is a good description of the murder and the murder night. While Fuhrmann cites other published sources, this was the first I had read of possible involvement of the British Secret Service. The circumstantial evidence pointing to participation of Oswald Rayner, a British agent, is hard to ignore.
There is an interesting account of lives of Rasputin's family and the key players in the aftermath of this death.
The book has a good index. The list of characters, places and terms is very helpful. There are fascinating photographs (particularly: Khioniya Guseva, his first attempted assassin; Rasputin with Bishop Hermogen and the monk Iliodor; and a triptych showing the changes in Rasputin from 1909-1913).
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this period of Russian history.
September 24, 2013
Author Joseph Fuhrmann has done extensive research on Grigory Rasputin, the supposed "mad monk" of Russia. This book has many new & not seen photos of Rasputin. Very interesting & knowledgeable.
This book tells of his life as a young peasant & evolves into his life as the noted "healer" & friend to Nicolas & Alexandra. His involvement with the Tsar & his wife helped to bring down the Empire. The strange life of Rasputin is told from his birth to his horrible murder. He had the uncanny ability to "see" what was to occur, & even knew he was to be killed.
Furhmann has gone thru many closed archived records, letters, police reports & has come up with a very intimate look at the life of Rasputin. His book on the Siberian mystic healer is very detailed, includes all the politics & shows how the Tsar lost all his credibility with his Russia & doomed his family, how their fateful meeting & befriending of Rasputin sealed his fate.
This book tells of his life as a young peasant & evolves into his life as the noted "healer" & friend to Nicolas & Alexandra. His involvement with the Tsar & his wife helped to bring down the Empire. The strange life of Rasputin is told from his birth to his horrible murder. He had the uncanny ability to "see" what was to occur, & even knew he was to be killed.
Furhmann has gone thru many closed archived records, letters, police reports & has come up with a very intimate look at the life of Rasputin. His book on the Siberian mystic healer is very detailed, includes all the politics & shows how the Tsar lost all his credibility with his Russia & doomed his family, how their fateful meeting & befriending of Rasputin sealed his fate.
March 20, 2019
Started off promising, but devolved into a series of names and dates that were devoid of interest. The tome insists that the world might be better off had Rasputin never been born, but Rasputin was just an opportunist. Nicholas was passive and his wife was a domineering, unstable ostrich. Rasputin was a layered player on that scene, and he didn't always have evil at heart.
March 26, 2021
How could a Siberian peasant become one of the most influential individuals in tsarist Russia?
.
Gregori Rasputin managed to insinuate himself into the heart of the tsarist government by taking advantage of gullible and vulnerable royalties.
.
He was a simple farmer who became a notorious mystic. One of his main assets was his soul-piercing gaze that mesmerized the people around him.
.
He healed a sick child— the son of the Tsar was sick in hemophilia—and after that the royals didn’t dare to let him go, in case the child would be sick again.
.
This book tells the fascinating story of Rasputins rise and fall, and the tsarist regime that fell with him.
.
📝 Rasputin: 1869 - 1916
.
📝 Nicholas II decided to lead the Russian army in-person in order to boost morale after heavy casualties during WW1. He had to delegate the tasks of running the state to his wife, who was Rasputins biggest fan! This was a disaster and made Rasputin the 3rd most powerful man in Russia.
.
📝 : "Rasputin was bold in his sins and his spirituality. He tried to recapture the past - to reconnect with the love he felt in moments of religious ecstasy. At first the search came through prayer and contemplation; from 1912 on he used sex and alcohol."
.
🍆 When someone at a party questioned if Gregory really was the notorious Rasputin, he proved his identity by dropping his pants and waving his sexual organ. It’s size was already legendary.
.
📝 Rasputin took a dagger in the stomachs by a female assassin. And survived.
..
📝 He was conspired against and murdered. First he was poisoned (with cyanide enough to kill a dozen men.), and then shot, and then beaten to a pulp.
.
⭐️ TAKEAWAY:
My main takeaway from this book is that I’m now starting to get a better grasp of Russian history (this might even turn into an obsession 😬 .). And out of pure chance the stories I read about in Gulag Archipelago start to take place right after the events of this book, allowing me to continue the journey.
.
⚖️ VERDICT:
It’s good book! Pick it up if this guy sounds interesting to you (he is!) but it’s not mandatory reading!
.
🎲 3/5
.
⁉️What have your read from Russians and/or about Russia that you recommend? ⁉️
.
Gregori Rasputin managed to insinuate himself into the heart of the tsarist government by taking advantage of gullible and vulnerable royalties.
.
He was a simple farmer who became a notorious mystic. One of his main assets was his soul-piercing gaze that mesmerized the people around him.
.
He healed a sick child— the son of the Tsar was sick in hemophilia—and after that the royals didn’t dare to let him go, in case the child would be sick again.
.
This book tells the fascinating story of Rasputins rise and fall, and the tsarist regime that fell with him.
.
📝 Rasputin: 1869 - 1916
.
📝 Nicholas II decided to lead the Russian army in-person in order to boost morale after heavy casualties during WW1. He had to delegate the tasks of running the state to his wife, who was Rasputins biggest fan! This was a disaster and made Rasputin the 3rd most powerful man in Russia.
.
📝 : "Rasputin was bold in his sins and his spirituality. He tried to recapture the past - to reconnect with the love he felt in moments of religious ecstasy. At first the search came through prayer and contemplation; from 1912 on he used sex and alcohol."
.
🍆 When someone at a party questioned if Gregory really was the notorious Rasputin, he proved his identity by dropping his pants and waving his sexual organ. It’s size was already legendary.
.
📝 Rasputin took a dagger in the stomachs by a female assassin. And survived.
..
📝 He was conspired against and murdered. First he was poisoned (with cyanide enough to kill a dozen men.), and then shot, and then beaten to a pulp.
.
⭐️ TAKEAWAY:
My main takeaway from this book is that I’m now starting to get a better grasp of Russian history (this might even turn into an obsession 😬 .). And out of pure chance the stories I read about in Gulag Archipelago start to take place right after the events of this book, allowing me to continue the journey.
.
⚖️ VERDICT:
It’s good book! Pick it up if this guy sounds interesting to you (he is!) but it’s not mandatory reading!
.
🎲 3/5
.
⁉️What have your read from Russians and/or about Russia that you recommend? ⁉️
February 14, 2018
Every couple of years I read another biography of Gregory Rasputin. He remains one of the most fascinating persons of the twentieth century. From humble Siberian beginnings, this staret exhibited true spiritual yearnings and seekings that were nevertheless shepherded and shadowed by emotionalism many denounced as profligate. He had a true gift for touching hearts (as well as other parts of lots of bodies. Was this simply lust or a Khlysty-like penetration to the essence of being, beyond good and evil? I don't know.) and the healing result of his presence around Alexis is undeniable. His prescience could have been hypersensitivity; both are rare gifts. But Rasputin could be a poster boy for that ubiquitous affliction of all Christian charismatics- the death of humility. From Jim Jones to our present mega-millionaire television evangelists, humility seems to be the first, and most profound, casualty of Christian inspiration and gifts. But though that loss tarnished his last years and led to his now popular demonization, what brought about his downfall and murder was simply age-old class warfare-rich and powerful people don't like uppity peasants. The Petrograd nobles celebrated his frozen body from the Neva; the peasants grumbled; they knew the true score. Three months later Tsar Nicholas abdicated and several months after that, he and his family were murdered, with government sanction. And the nobles still breathing were running for their lives. Coincidence? Not hardly.
July 2, 2023
Well researched and undoubtedly more accurate than any of the scores of other books, articles, and movies about Rasputin. Amazing how a semi-literate peasant (he was not a monk) managed to bring down the Russian empire. There were other factors at play besides Rasputin, but I'd have to put most of the blame at his feet. Alexandra could get her weak husband, Nicholas II, to do anything she wanted, right down to making military, religious, and political appointments, and Rasputin could get superstitious Alexandra to do whatever he wanted. In effect, Rasputin was running Russia. The people knew it, and they hated the imperial family for it.
Rasputin's death wasn't quite as fantastical as some like to make it out to be, but then the original autopsy report wasn't available until recently. It's unfortunate that the likes of Rasputin can achieve near mythological status just because sensationalism sold as well a hundred years ago as it does now.
Rasputin's death wasn't quite as fantastical as some like to make it out to be, but then the original autopsy report wasn't available until recently. It's unfortunate that the likes of Rasputin can achieve near mythological status just because sensationalism sold as well a hundred years ago as it does now.
August 6, 2018
Radzinsky's book is still my favorite. but Untold Story comes in second. (I have an extensive Rasputin library). Of much interest to me here are the shenanigans of and in the Church, which are covered quite nicely. Don't get me started on the war-government. Even more chaotic than Trump's government. Just thing what these incompetents could have with Twitter. Of course, everything that could have gone wrong with Nicki's reign did. I am once more reminded that I have never understood his passion for the German Woman. Perhaps she could be pleasant in the privacy of her own home and family, but I doubt it. And Praskovaya is worth a book onto herself. In the end Fr Grigory. with his many faults, was the good guy much of the time. Certainly better than the likes of crazy Illidor and Protopopov. .
September 9, 2018
Well, it was factual. It certainly provided a lot of facts. But it utterly lacked style. Honestly, I had the worst time getting through the first two-thirds of this book. I originally gave the book two stars instead of three because I was so irritated by this (ultimately upgraded because, once I took emotion out, it was a passable account, just dull). Was Rasputin actually so boring? Or did this book manage to turn one of the most fascinating characters of the 20th century into a snoozer? I felt like the author spent half the book comparing other Rasputin biographies, the pros, the cons, the reasons why this or that theory presented by this or that author holds water or doesn't pan out. You do you, man; don't worry about what the other kids on the playground are saying. I guess I would have liked more scene setting, more description of the times, places, and people. Perhaps a map and an index or prologue outlining the major players to jog the memories of the readers (even to a casual student of Russian language and history, the names and places started to run together). Different or clearer outlining of the story so I didn't feel like we were rehashing the same information multiple times. I understand there's a particular difficulty in sketching Rasputin's early life because of the lack of peasant documentation, but I've read fascinating biographers who had to work with less.
June 22, 2015
This is a biography of Gregory Rasputin. Born a peasant in Siberia, he became religious and powerful as he befriended Tsar Nicholas II and his wife Alexandra. He was often manipulative and many people hated him. He was murdered shortly before the revolution when the Romanovs were murdered themselves.
This was very good and seemed to be well-researched. The author apparently was able to get to some documents and files that had not before been released. It's an interesting story, as a whole, and while parts of the story do focus on Nicholas and Alexandra, where Rasputin was, what he was doing, and his influence on the Romanovs was what the book was about. There were a few less interesting parts for me – mostly the politics – but overall, I thought it was very good and well worth reading for anyone interested in the Romanovs.
This was very good and seemed to be well-researched. The author apparently was able to get to some documents and files that had not before been released. It's an interesting story, as a whole, and while parts of the story do focus on Nicholas and Alexandra, where Rasputin was, what he was doing, and his influence on the Romanovs was what the book was about. There were a few less interesting parts for me – mostly the politics – but overall, I thought it was very good and well worth reading for anyone interested in the Romanovs.
March 2, 2021
I have spent years reading and researching about the life and death of Grigori Rasputin. After so much time focused upon one historical figure, I can assure you that this is definitely one of the best sources about him I have ever read.
Fuhrmann combines countless primary and secondary sources to create a cohesive look into the life and death of Russia's mystic. He counters myths and supposed "truths" throughout this extremely accessible, and interesting read.
I have never been a biography person, but I will make an excuse for this amazing book. Even if you know nothing about Rasputin, this is just as easy of a read. There are so many insightful anecdotes of Rasputin's relationships, personality, and family life. Truly one of my favorites reads of 2021.
Fuhrmann combines countless primary and secondary sources to create a cohesive look into the life and death of Russia's mystic. He counters myths and supposed "truths" throughout this extremely accessible, and interesting read.
I have never been a biography person, but I will make an excuse for this amazing book. Even if you know nothing about Rasputin, this is just as easy of a read. There are so many insightful anecdotes of Rasputin's relationships, personality, and family life. Truly one of my favorites reads of 2021.
October 27, 2013
There is no pleasing me. The last several history books I reviewed have received negative comments about the fantasy portions and authors' opinions given as authority. This book erred the opposite direction. The Romanovs, particularly the final years, are the world's most interesting subject to me. To have this book be a dry recitation of facts, woodenly textbook in its chronological statement of bald facts, is astonishing to me. Yes, there is new information, primarily more background info on this pivotal figure. The "big reveal" is information from the autopsy giving his actual cause of death. I forced myself to finish, finding the book worked best as a replacement for sleeping pills.
January 3, 2023
Incredible biography of Rasputin. Written in a clear and concise manner while addressing rumors and stating facts that prove or disprove those rumors. Rasputin and the Romanovs have always been super interesting to me and I’m really glad I read this as now I have a clearer idea of who Rasputin was.
January 17, 2013
Highly researched. Rasputin's history very interesting. Still some questions about his death, but this book is pretty definitive. The man was an enigma. Amazing how much sway he had over the Empress, who in turn had the Tsar's ear. Good nonfiction, historical read.
February 21, 2013
Interesting information presented in a style that grated, somehow. I think there was too much of an author bias (that went all over the place) in this work. Still, rare and compelling facts are on display within.
September 15, 2015
I really liked it had a nice flow and breezed right through it. Fuhrmann challenged a lot of the existing myths. Using the then recently opened Russian archives. Some interesting stories that I did not hear before. Also tracks down his family members which is rather tragic.
September 29, 2008
horribly boring despite the interesting subject.
March 3, 2020
Very readable biography on Rasputin. It was easy to understand and that's what you want in a biography, especially when it involves Russia, the tsar, and WWI. There were a lot of Russian terms that needed definitions and Russian surnames that were hard to pronounce (not to mention, many share the same first name of Alexander, Nicholas, Gregory, Alexei, Anna, Maria...so it's easy to get people confused.)
I have always been interested in Rasputin ever since I heard how he died back in my junior year AP World History class. Also, I just loved "Rasputin" on the Just Dance 2 Wii edition. I mean, who doesn't love Boney M's "Rasputin"? That song is dope and you just gotta move to it:
Ra Ra Rasputin, lover of the Russian Queen/Russia's greatest love machine/It was a shame how he carried oooonnnnnnn
Nevertheless, it was high time for me to actually read up on this mysterious figure in history who had so much power and influence. The author did a great job keeping me interested and outlining Rasputin's life, as well as Nicholas II and Alexandre, the tsar and tsarina whom Rasputin had so much impact on. If what you know about Rasputin comes from the animated movie Anastasia, you have so much to learn. For one, he wasn't necessarily a villain, at least from how this author details him. He was a peasant who went on pilgrimages, gave religious counsel, and would try his best to help the peasants (such as giving them a voice, providing alms, getting people out of jail who were wrongfully charged, healing people, etc.)
Rasputin was a bit of a cult leader in his attitude and his ability to convince people that his views were the right ones; he supposedly had piercing eyes that could see into the soul and hypnotize those who stared into them. Many men and women were enamored by his way of speaking and his gaze, even though he was not handsome and had a scary demeanor. It was just his aura that had so many people believe he was mystical and holy with spiritual foresight.
Rasputin had his enemies, as well as his supporters. I mean, he was not necessarily a good man, either, despite not quite being a villain. There are many accounts of him manipulating people, stealing, drinking to excess, using his wife's grocery money on alcohol, cheating on her, behaving in obscene ways, cursing, and molesting unsuspecting women who went to him for religious counsel. Yet, since he had so much power over the tsarina, these crimes and his misbehavior were disregarded; so many times there would be people accusing him of a crime, but then Nicholas II or Alexandra would step in and Rasputin was not held accountable. Sure, there were some investigations that went on, but they never fell through and he could never be convicted for anything. But, of course, some of these accusations were fabricated by his enemies so they had no standing, but others had clear evidence.
The reason for the tsar and tsarina's respect/closeness to Rasputin was that they believed he somehow cured their son's hemophilia. Rasputin's "holiness" was something they wanted near since they believed his presence was good for their son's health. Whether it was coincidence, hypnotism, or some secret medical remedy he performed, Rasputin seemed to ease Alexis's pain and stop his bleeding whenever he was near. This is why Rasputin got away with a lot, since he was seen as a healer and a "magical" man who could mend in ways doctors could not.
Overall, Rasputin was just a very interesting person to read about and it is crazy to think about how much influence he had on Russia. Also, the way he died is INSANE. By the end of the book, I suddenly felt pity for this man who history has declared a villain.
I have always been interested in Rasputin ever since I heard how he died back in my junior year AP World History class. Also, I just loved "Rasputin" on the Just Dance 2 Wii edition. I mean, who doesn't love Boney M's "Rasputin"? That song is dope and you just gotta move to it:
Ra Ra Rasputin, lover of the Russian Queen/Russia's greatest love machine/It was a shame how he carried oooonnnnnnn
Nevertheless, it was high time for me to actually read up on this mysterious figure in history who had so much power and influence. The author did a great job keeping me interested and outlining Rasputin's life, as well as Nicholas II and Alexandre, the tsar and tsarina whom Rasputin had so much impact on. If what you know about Rasputin comes from the animated movie Anastasia, you have so much to learn. For one, he wasn't necessarily a villain, at least from how this author details him. He was a peasant who went on pilgrimages, gave religious counsel, and would try his best to help the peasants (such as giving them a voice, providing alms, getting people out of jail who were wrongfully charged, healing people, etc.)
Rasputin was a bit of a cult leader in his attitude and his ability to convince people that his views were the right ones; he supposedly had piercing eyes that could see into the soul and hypnotize those who stared into them. Many men and women were enamored by his way of speaking and his gaze, even though he was not handsome and had a scary demeanor. It was just his aura that had so many people believe he was mystical and holy with spiritual foresight.
Rasputin had his enemies, as well as his supporters. I mean, he was not necessarily a good man, either, despite not quite being a villain. There are many accounts of him manipulating people, stealing, drinking to excess, using his wife's grocery money on alcohol, cheating on her, behaving in obscene ways, cursing, and molesting unsuspecting women who went to him for religious counsel. Yet, since he had so much power over the tsarina, these crimes and his misbehavior were disregarded; so many times there would be people accusing him of a crime, but then Nicholas II or Alexandra would step in and Rasputin was not held accountable. Sure, there were some investigations that went on, but they never fell through and he could never be convicted for anything. But, of course, some of these accusations were fabricated by his enemies so they had no standing, but others had clear evidence.
The reason for the tsar and tsarina's respect/closeness to Rasputin was that they believed he somehow cured their son's hemophilia. Rasputin's "holiness" was something they wanted near since they believed his presence was good for their son's health. Whether it was coincidence, hypnotism, or some secret medical remedy he performed, Rasputin seemed to ease Alexis's pain and stop his bleeding whenever he was near. This is why Rasputin got away with a lot, since he was seen as a healer and a "magical" man who could mend in ways doctors could not.
Overall, Rasputin was just a very interesting person to read about and it is crazy to think about how much influence he had on Russia. Also, the way he died is INSANE. By the end of the book, I suddenly felt pity for this man who history has declared a villain.
November 27, 2017
Decided to tackle a biography to get back into the habit of reading physical books. I found this one to be a pleasantly quick read that gave me sufficient overview on everything needed to know about Gregori Rasputin.
As a scholarly piece, it examines Rasputin through an objective lense. Fuhrmann acknowledges the sensational stories about Rasputin’s enormous schlong and superhuman resistance to death, because any biography about the man would not be complete without them. But in general, the picture he paints is of an ordinary peasant who kindled a god-fearing passion later in life then happened to rise to an unprecedented role in Russian society via a combination personal charisma, political savvy, and luck.
Two mysteries still surround Rasputin which I do not feel were adequately resolved. The first is his ability to consistently and significantly heal the tsarevich Alexis, better than any doctor. Did Rasputin slip Alexis medicine, or was the effect purely placebo? Or even more unbelievably…did Rasputin really possess supernatural power in the art of healing? The second mystery involves Felix Yusupov’s account that Rasputin regained consciousness after being shot to terrorize his assassin and attempt to flee before finally being executed with a bullet between the eyes. Fuhrmann dissected anecdotes of Rasputin’s murder in intricate detail from various sources, but he never touches upon or disputes this implausible chapter.
I find it interesting that world leaders throughout history have been revealed to be so heavily influenced by spiritual figures. After all, the governing of a country demands extreme pragmatism. Not only did Tsar Nicholas II get into bed with Rasputin in the 20th century. 100 years later it was discovered that Park Geun-hye, the former president of South Korea, collaborated with her friend and shamanic descendant Choi Soon-sil on state affairs.
Just goes to show that nation rulers, especially those who inherited the position, are equally confounded with their role in this world. Following human nature, they will gravitate toward any comforting explanation with less than prudent regard for the source.
As a scholarly piece, it examines Rasputin through an objective lense. Fuhrmann acknowledges the sensational stories about Rasputin’s enormous schlong and superhuman resistance to death, because any biography about the man would not be complete without them. But in general, the picture he paints is of an ordinary peasant who kindled a god-fearing passion later in life then happened to rise to an unprecedented role in Russian society via a combination personal charisma, political savvy, and luck.
Two mysteries still surround Rasputin which I do not feel were adequately resolved. The first is his ability to consistently and significantly heal the tsarevich Alexis, better than any doctor. Did Rasputin slip Alexis medicine, or was the effect purely placebo? Or even more unbelievably…did Rasputin really possess supernatural power in the art of healing? The second mystery involves Felix Yusupov’s account that Rasputin regained consciousness after being shot to terrorize his assassin and attempt to flee before finally being executed with a bullet between the eyes. Fuhrmann dissected anecdotes of Rasputin’s murder in intricate detail from various sources, but he never touches upon or disputes this implausible chapter.
I find it interesting that world leaders throughout history have been revealed to be so heavily influenced by spiritual figures. After all, the governing of a country demands extreme pragmatism. Not only did Tsar Nicholas II get into bed with Rasputin in the 20th century. 100 years later it was discovered that Park Geun-hye, the former president of South Korea, collaborated with her friend and shamanic descendant Choi Soon-sil on state affairs.
Just goes to show that nation rulers, especially those who inherited the position, are equally confounded with their role in this world. Following human nature, they will gravitate toward any comforting explanation with less than prudent regard for the source.
August 22, 2020
A readable account of Rasputin's life and death, but not without its faults. I think I'm going to have to start reading the physical copies, because this was another poorly put together Kindle version which would have benefited from some proofreading. Also, no photos, which was a shame. There is a comprehensive bibliography at the end of the book, but I was irritated throughout by a lack of references. The e-book would benefit hugely from some form of footnotes or numbered index.
However, it must be pretty hard to write an unreadable book about Rasputin, illiterate peasant, starets, Holy Man, pilgrim, profligate, rapist, healer, the most hated man in Russia, and, for a time, a man whose influence over the country far exceeded his social status and his ability. It would be easy to condemn him as nothing more than a charlatan, but as Furhmann shows, Father Gregory was far more complex than that: a true believer in God, with a powerful sense that he was needed to save Russia, a man who recognised clearly that war with Germany would destroy the country, but who then was pro-active in its demise by his constant promoting of weak candidates for top positions, merely because they appeared to be supportive of him. Rasputin did not cause the revolution, nor, really, the downfall of the Romanovs, but his constant interference (along with Alexandra) irrevocably weakened an already fragile system.
Fuhrmann's strange conclusion is that perhaps the world would have been better off if Gregory Rasputin had never been born, an oddly redundant verdict for a professional historian. One could as easily say, the world would have been a better place had Alexandra never been born, or Nicholas, or even Alexis, because certainly without Alexis, there would never have been Rasputin. Rasputin would undoubtedly argue that the world would have been a better place with a Felix Yusupov. Such games of 'what if' are unnecessary and pointless – he *was* born, and to paraphrase Michelle Obama, it was what it was.
However, it must be pretty hard to write an unreadable book about Rasputin, illiterate peasant, starets, Holy Man, pilgrim, profligate, rapist, healer, the most hated man in Russia, and, for a time, a man whose influence over the country far exceeded his social status and his ability. It would be easy to condemn him as nothing more than a charlatan, but as Furhmann shows, Father Gregory was far more complex than that: a true believer in God, with a powerful sense that he was needed to save Russia, a man who recognised clearly that war with Germany would destroy the country, but who then was pro-active in its demise by his constant promoting of weak candidates for top positions, merely because they appeared to be supportive of him. Rasputin did not cause the revolution, nor, really, the downfall of the Romanovs, but his constant interference (along with Alexandra) irrevocably weakened an already fragile system.
Fuhrmann's strange conclusion is that perhaps the world would have been better off if Gregory Rasputin had never been born, an oddly redundant verdict for a professional historian. One could as easily say, the world would have been a better place had Alexandra never been born, or Nicholas, or even Alexis, because certainly without Alexis, there would never have been Rasputin. Rasputin would undoubtedly argue that the world would have been a better place with a Felix Yusupov. Such games of 'what if' are unnecessary and pointless – he *was* born, and to paraphrase Michelle Obama, it was what it was.
April 20, 2023
This history draws on the Russian archives, long hidden by the Soviets, and presents the first documented account of the life of the Starets (a non-ordained man recognized for piety). The man you meet in these pages differs markedly from the 'evil mystic' generally portrayed in works ranging from scholarly, like Massie's Nicholas and Alexandria, to sensational, like Iliador's The Mad Monk of Russia. Rasputin emerges as a clever, manipulative opportunist who believed in his mystical gifts yet was realistic enough not to rely on them too much. His ultimate goal remains unclear. It is possible he had no political agenda beyond ensuring the status quo was maintained and with it his personal status and financial security. Once the war began, he engaged in what we now call "influence peddling" on an scale that grew rapidly. His pre-war pacifism, admiration for Germany and friendships with some businessmen who were Jewish inevitably led to accusations from Orthodox nationalists that he was at best a defeatist and at worst a German agent. In late 1915, the mutual hostility between Tsarina Alexandria and Grand Duke Nicholas Nikolaevich ("Nicholasha") caused by the latter's distaste for Rasputin precipitated a leadership crisis. By siding with the Tsarina and pressing Nicholas to take personal command of the army and leave governing to the Tsarina, Rasputin sealed his political fate. His rise as a "power behind the thrown" was meteoric but doomed along with the Romanov Imperium. The forces of radical political reform that had been building up in Russia since the failed revolution of 1905 were finally unleashed by an economic crisis caused by war-imposed austerity. They swept Rasputin aside, and his Imperial benefactors soon followed. With the calm skill of a historian, Mr. Fuhrmann separates the man from the myths. Highly recommended to anyone interested in Russian history.
January 18, 2019
Few historical figures are as polarizing and mythologized as Rasputin, so it was a formidable task for Joseph T. Fuhrmann to sort through the misinformation and patch together a definitive narrative about the mysterious figure.
Movies portray Rasputin as a dark wizard who cast spells and hypnotized witless power brokers into carrying out his bidding. Naysayers dismiss him as a charlatan who was more of a mentalist, exploiting vulnerabilities of those he encountered to make himself seem powerful in ways he was not.
Could it be that the truth was somewhere in the middle?
What emerges is a portrait of a megalomaniacal mystic who was the chief culprit at spreading false narratives about his powers and influence. There's little doubt that he was prone to exaggeration, if not outright lies, to shamelessly manipulate the likes of Czar Nicholas and his wife, Alexandra.
Still, there may have been something otherworldly and metaphysical about him. He seemed to have an uncanny ability to diagnose ailments and fathom "cures" that managed to deliver people a measure of health or peace. Eyewitness accounts drove home the common impression that Rasputin had a Kaa the Snake-like ability to seduce and hypotize people with his gaze.
Fuhrmann sometimes gets hung up on the dryer, less fascinating aspects of Rasputin's life, but spends an equal amount of time sorting out the more sultry aspects of his existence, as well as how his sexual exploits resonated in his reputation both at court and in his own home.
While far from the final word on the confounding historical figure, Fuhrmann's book goes a long way toward separating the noise from the fact to craft a believable portrait of the man, rather than just the myth and legend.
Movies portray Rasputin as a dark wizard who cast spells and hypnotized witless power brokers into carrying out his bidding. Naysayers dismiss him as a charlatan who was more of a mentalist, exploiting vulnerabilities of those he encountered to make himself seem powerful in ways he was not.
Could it be that the truth was somewhere in the middle?
What emerges is a portrait of a megalomaniacal mystic who was the chief culprit at spreading false narratives about his powers and influence. There's little doubt that he was prone to exaggeration, if not outright lies, to shamelessly manipulate the likes of Czar Nicholas and his wife, Alexandra.
Still, there may have been something otherworldly and metaphysical about him. He seemed to have an uncanny ability to diagnose ailments and fathom "cures" that managed to deliver people a measure of health or peace. Eyewitness accounts drove home the common impression that Rasputin had a Kaa the Snake-like ability to seduce and hypotize people with his gaze.
Fuhrmann sometimes gets hung up on the dryer, less fascinating aspects of Rasputin's life, but spends an equal amount of time sorting out the more sultry aspects of his existence, as well as how his sexual exploits resonated in his reputation both at court and in his own home.
While far from the final word on the confounding historical figure, Fuhrmann's book goes a long way toward separating the noise from the fact to craft a believable portrait of the man, rather than just the myth and legend.
June 30, 2022
How does the peasant, farmer, son of a horse-thief
Go on and on
Grow into more of a phenomenon?
Watch this lecherous, drunkard, faith-healing bother
Be seated at the right hand of the father!
I've been wanting to read a biography of Rasputin for a long time and this one was very informative. It did go into HEAVY detail and I was really struggling to keep track of who all the people were in the tsar's court, the Duma, the Holy Synod, and other institutions and the various beefs they all had with each other and with Rasputin. It doesn't help that, like every other book I've read about Russia, everybody has at least 5 names and most of them are Nicolas or Alexander. However, I really appreciated Fuhrmann's attention to detail and the way he carefully parsed fact, rumor, political motivation, medicinal folk knowledge, stage-magic tricks, and even supernatural aspects as possible explanations for Rasputin's alleged powers of personal influence and healing. Rasputin's story is an INSANE one that makes no sense, yet Fuhrmann does a great job of staying grounded in the historical details and attempting to make sense out of the chaos. His story in many ways is also such a modern one. Are the real facts about Rasputin, many of which we can never really know at this point, as important as the political and religious meaning that others found in him?
Go on and on
Grow into more of a phenomenon?
Watch this lecherous, drunkard, faith-healing bother
Be seated at the right hand of the father!
I've been wanting to read a biography of Rasputin for a long time and this one was very informative. It did go into HEAVY detail and I was really struggling to keep track of who all the people were in the tsar's court, the Duma, the Holy Synod, and other institutions and the various beefs they all had with each other and with Rasputin. It doesn't help that, like every other book I've read about Russia, everybody has at least 5 names and most of them are Nicolas or Alexander. However, I really appreciated Fuhrmann's attention to detail and the way he carefully parsed fact, rumor, political motivation, medicinal folk knowledge, stage-magic tricks, and even supernatural aspects as possible explanations for Rasputin's alleged powers of personal influence and healing. Rasputin's story is an INSANE one that makes no sense, yet Fuhrmann does a great job of staying grounded in the historical details and attempting to make sense out of the chaos. His story in many ways is also such a modern one. Are the real facts about Rasputin, many of which we can never really know at this point, as important as the political and religious meaning that others found in him?
October 12, 2024
I'm not big into biographies, except for historical figures that truly interest me. So, I picked this one since there is so much scrutiny, myth, and sensationalism revolving around Rasputin that I wanted the full story.
With that in mind, this book was great on hitting the truth, maybe not true, and the highly debatable facts of him including his early life, religious background, rise to politics, and his relationship with the tsar.
After having read it, it's hard to get a real grip on who Rasputin was since he seemed to be a walking contradiction and heretic. Add on top of that that witnesses all gave different accounts. However, the speculation was entertaining to read, and it also gave a glimpse into the politics of Russia before and during World War I.
But holy hell, what a grim ending paragraph.
With that in mind, this book was great on hitting the truth, maybe not true, and the highly debatable facts of him including his early life, religious background, rise to politics, and his relationship with the tsar.
After having read it, it's hard to get a real grip on who Rasputin was since he seemed to be a walking contradiction and heretic. Add on top of that that witnesses all gave different accounts. However, the speculation was entertaining to read, and it also gave a glimpse into the politics of Russia before and during World War I.
But holy hell, what a grim ending paragraph.
April 23, 2022
I think this book was well written and loaded with information. I’m trying to understand the mystery of Rasputin and why so many people have been obsessed with him. I don’t think he was a bad guy, he started out with good intentions but like any human being exposed to corruption and greed he succumbed. I definitely think he had a psychological illness that he had to have sex all the time. His influence over Alexandra was so extreme that she used it to control her husband and I honestly think Nicholas could have been a good tsar if he hadn’t let her influence him so and actually had a backbone to stand up to her. She was obviously obsessed with Rasputin and in her eyes he could do no wrong. It’s a shame how everything played out.
June 1, 2017
Interesting book about an interesting man. Since I don't know much about the man outside of his legend (and the Don Bluth film that I know took all of the liberties), I can't speak much about the accuracy, but it seemed good. I liked that the author showed both the virtues as well as the flaws of the man. It's not a long read, but a dense one. And considering how much space the notes take, I would say a well-researched book.
Also learned an interesting fact related to said Bluth film, Rasputin's code name for the British was "Dark Forces."
Also learned an interesting fact related to said Bluth film, Rasputin's code name for the British was "Dark Forces."
April 23, 2020
Seems to be mostly concerned with historical accuracy and recounting the best-known factual accounts of this tremendously fascinating life and his role in one of the pivotal moments in history. There's a little editorializing and embellishing, but it's mostly told without taking a side, which helps further convey the nuances involved in the biography. After reading this, I feel my understanding of the events of the fall of the Romanovs is deeper, and my intrigue at the figure, and the making of, a person such as Rasputin is at an all-time high.
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