Russia Paperback – August 26, 2002

Beginning in 1870, Wallace lived in and visited Russia over a period of nearly half a century. The first edition of this book appeared in approximately 1875 after the author had lived in Russia for about four years. Subsequently, as his knowledge deepened, he added chapters focusing on additional topics that he believed important and/or upon which he felt qualified to write. The book is replete with acute insights about Russia and Russians that remain relevant to this day. I have visited Russia many times beginning in 1958 as an exchange student at Moscow University. I read Wallace's book as I prepared for that first trip and have read sections of it again and again over the years. Now, with great pleasure, I have just finished a cover-to-cover reading of this Kindle edition. Again, I am so impressed by the acuity of Wallace's insights as well as his mastery of the English language. Many things have changed in Russia over the past century but Wallace shows us how many things remain unchanged.

This is a sometimes plodding, sometimes riveting account of the development of the Russian Empire from Kievan Russ to the war with Japan. When the going got tough, I would skim over details and just read for the general flow. At other times the details were fascinating. It was strange to have the author end the account with no knowledge of what was to come...but of course, how could he know. But my interest is piqued, and I have already borrowed a more modern history of Russia to continue the story!

Good historical analysis on the way of life and the Russian psyche/mindset during Imperial Russia. Provides a good backdrop for understanding that vast nation even today.

Some repetition, but very good contemporary insight into the years leading up to the revolution by a true scholar who lived among and studied the people and society at the time.

Excellent

Very profound history of Russia, a way to understand it today.

Excelltent Reading !

hard going