A History of Russia: From Peter the Great to Gorbachev

This is a sweeping history of Russia from the time of Peter the Great through the years of Gorbachev and the end of the Soviet Union covered in 36 thirty-minute lectures by Professor Mark D. Steinberg. Professor Steinberg is reknowned in the field of Slavic studies and focuses on cultural aspects more than rote historical timelines. He digs down into how the common people felt at the time period being studied--often using archival documents written by the people themselves, or oftentimes anecdotes found in others' works; particularly as throughout most of history the main group of people; the peasants, were illiterate.

I found these lectures to be extremely informative and interesting. A huge amount of material is covered concisely and show more effectively. show less

An engaging overview of the history of Russia taught by a professor who feels deeply for the Russian people and lived in Russia during Soviet times. Inspiring and compelling.

And, of no real importance but I have to add, Mark Steinberg happens to sound a lot like David Schwimmer (Ross from Friends).