Dances in Deep Shadows: The Clandestine War in Russia, 1917-1920

by Michael Occleshaw

In 1917, the world was turned upside down by a popular uprising and then a Bolshevik coup d'état in Russia. Suddenly, the socialist revolution that many had hoped for and had expected was underway, Capitalism was morally and materially exhausted by war, and history seemed to be on the side of communism at last. But as Michael Occleshaw brilliantly shows in this startling new appraisal of the revolution and civil war in Russia, the Bolsheviks were shrewd and flexible operators. They used an alliance with the Kaiser's Germany to protect their infant regime and to destroy domestic challengers to their government. The British, the French, and the Americans, meanwhile, actively sought ways to cooperate with the new government regardless of their deep ideological differences. Occleshaw has discovered a wealth of new information that deepens and enriches our understanding of this crucial period in world history. In revolutionary Russia, he reveals a teeming underground of espionage, double-dealing, and adventurism. From the secret negotiations between the Bolsheviks and the capitalist powers to Britain's plans for a separate Cossack state, Occleshaw reveals a history darker, more dangerous, and more exciting than anyone could have imagined.

Genres: History, Military History

360 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Al · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favourite periods of history. Occleshaw opens the door to a very complicated, yet compelling story of the Allied response to the Soviet withdrawal from WW1. The risk to the Allies was immense and threatened a victory for the Germans. The complex mess leading to the Russian Civil War and its' conclusion was explained in a gripping and brilliant style. I learnt so much and enjoyed the experience thoroughly. If World War One and/or the Russian Civil War interests you, then this book will be a revelation.

[Gregory · Rating 1 out of 5]

Stopped reading, boring!!!!!

[Rd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating book. Lots of parallels to what is going on in the world right now - which is NOT a good thing.

[Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book which revealing governments do not learn from history. Many of the actions taken by the various governments and individuals involved in the 'clandestine war' occur throughout history,have continued to the present and are likely to continue, human nature being what it is.
Looking at the basic reason for the Allied intervention in Russia at this time puts into perspective the reason for wars, imperial hubris. The British wanted to control the economy of Russia (and the world). In effect Great Britain wanted to maintain its status as an Imperial Power. Added to this was rabid anti-Semitism among Britain's ruling elite affected their view of the Bolsheviks. Several high ranking 'politicians' were obsessed with the idea of Bolshevism taking over the world. London continually ignored information contradicting the picture the Foreign Office painted of the situation. In the best tradition of British government, men on the spot seemed to be the only ones kept in ignorance of the plans (for intervention.) The fact the Russian people wanted an end to war was ignored by Western capitals.
Allied intelligence advised the allies needed to go in strong if they were going to intervene. Of course the force sent was small (partly because the populations of the Allies wanted war to end.) Early on Allied intelligence learned the Bolsheviks knew of the Allies' plans and thus there was no possibility of surprise, the Allies went ahead with their plans anyway.
Though the plans failed in the end, one of the Allies agents noted that girls volunteered as couriers and were "little heroines who do not appear in history books." (That has been the fate of a lot of women who were instrumental in their countries history).
The author also points out that Winston Churchill and others lied to get the Allies to intervene in Russia after the 1917 Revolution. Which brings us to more recent times, the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. The stated reason for entering was a lie, only a pretext to further the aims of the politicians in control of the US. They fired the General who advised a lot more troops would be needed. Instead they went in with the army they had.
It is both enjoyable and frustrating to read history. Enjoyable to read about past people and events, frustrating that little is learned by those in power.

[Lee · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think by the time I'd gotten to this, I'd lost some interest, so it wasn't as fun as I'd hoped. It's definitely thorough. The over-arching theme is that Western diplomats, in particular the British, were more involved in anti-Bolshevik measures than they had admitted to soon after the fact.

[Kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

A difficult book to read, but provides important information about the Allies', most particularly Britain's, involvement in Russia's politics during WWI and the Revolution. Extremely enlightening.

[Mick Maye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Britain's clandestine war and the various people involved. The attempts which sometimes were conflicting and optimistic in the extreme. Enjoyable read,