Title
The First Socialist Society: A History of the Soviet Union from Within, Second Enlarged Edition,New
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The First Socialist Society is the compelling and often tragic history of what Soviet citizens lived through from 1917 to 1993, told with great sympathy and perception. Tracing the evolution of the Soviet political system from its origins in 1917, Geoffrey Hosking shows how power has rarely been transmitted outside a tightly knit ruling elite and explains the forms of contact that have existed between rulers and ruled. He emphasizes the experience of the peasantry, urban workers, and professional people, showing how, more often than is commonly realized in the West, they have resisted repression and deprivation. He ranges over the character and role of religion, law, education, and literature within Soviet society; and the significance and fate of various national groups. As the story unfolds, we come to understand how the ideas of Marxism changed, taking on almost unrecognizable forms by unique political and economic circumstances.Hoskings analysis of this vast and complex country begins by asking how it was that the first socialist revolution took place in backward, autocratic Russia. Why were the Bolsheviks able to seize power and hold on to it? The core of the book lies in the years of Stalins rule: how did he exercise such unlimited power, and how did the various strata of society survive and come to terms with his tyranny? Later chapters recount Khrushchevs efforts to reform the worst features of Stalinism and the unpredictable effects of his attempts within the East European satellite countries, bringing out elements of socialism that had been obscured or overlaid in the Soviet Union itself.In this second enlarged edition, Hosking charts the remarkable events following the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 through the formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States in December 1991, relating these momentous changes to earlier Soviet history. From changes in style in the early days of glasnost to changes in substance as the reforms under perestroika transformed the political system, Hosking shows the boldness of Gorbachevs program as well as its ultimate result: the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
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- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: This book has five hundred seventy pages. It provides a comprehensive history of the Soviet Union from its inception to its dissolution.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book is available in paperback binding. This makes it lightweight and easy to handle for reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one point four six inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it suitable for bookshelf storage.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is Geoffrey Hosking. He is known for his insightful analysis of Soviet history.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: This book falls under the genre of history. It specifically focuses on the historical narrative of the Soviet Union.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in history? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It is written in a way that is accessible to those new to the topic of Soviet history.
- Q: How should I read this book for best understanding? A: For best understanding, read it sequentially from start to finish. The narrative builds on events chronologically, helping to grasp the evolution of Soviet society.
- Q: Is there a recommended age group for this book? A: This book is intended for adults and older teens. It contains complex themes related to history and politics.
- Q: Can I use this book for academic purposes? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic purposes. It is well-researched and provides valuable insights into Soviet history.
- Q: What is the best way to keep this paperback book in good condition? A: To keep this paperback book in good condition, store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bending the cover or pages.
- Q: Is it safe to read this book in bed? A: Yes, it is safe to read this book in bed. However, be cautious to avoid damaging the spine or pages while holding it.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you can contact customer service for a replacement or refund. Be sure to keep the packaging for reference.
- Q: How do I return this book if I don't like it? A: To return the book, follow the retailer's return policy. Typically, you will need to ship it back within a specified time frame.
- Q: Is there a warranty on this book? A: No, there is typically no warranty on books. However, return policies may apply if you encounter issues.
- Q: Where can I find more information about this book? A: You can find more information about this book on the publisher's website or through reputable booksellers. Reviews and summaries are also available online.