The Soviet Union: A very short introduction

Abstract

Blends political history with an investigation into the society and culture of the time. This VSI takes a thematic approach to the history of the Soviet Union. It covers the workings of Soviet society and its political system from 1917–91, emphasizing the contradictions and paradoxes of this large and complex state. The Soviet Union’s impact and legacy are also considered, alongside aspects of patriotism, political violence, poverty, and ideology, and answers are offered to some of the big questions about the Soviet experience.