A sweeping and compelling history of Russia that traces a millennium of ambition, conflict, culture, and transformation, revealing how the nation's turbulent past continues to shape its place in the modern world. Drawing on decades of experience as the BBC's Moscow correspondent, Martin Sixsmith presents an accessible and authoritative chronicle of Russian history from the nation's origins in the tenth century to the post-Soviet era. Blending political history with explorations of literature, music, art, and national identity, he examines the powerful myths Russians have created about themselves and the forces that have shaped their society across centuries. From the reigns of the tsars and the rise of the Russian Empire to revolution, communism, and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Sixsmith connects pivotal historical events to the realities of contemporary Russia. Richly detailed and deeply insightful, Russia: A 1000-Year Chronicle of the Wild East is an essential guide for readers seeking to understand one of the world's most influential and complex nations, its cultural heritage, and its enduring impact on global affairs.
