The Modernisation of Russia, 1676–1825

Synthesis and in-depth thematic analysis of Russia's modernisation and her emergence as a Great Power.

Simon Dixon (Author)

9780521379618, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 29 July 1999

288 pages, 2 maps
22.8 x 15.4 x 2.3 cm, 0.465 kg

'He combines a balanced and comprehensive analysis of conflicting interpretations of Russian cultural and social development … with a well-written narrative and clear conclusions.' Dominic Lieven, Slavonic and East European Review

This is the first book to place Russia's 'long' eighteenth century squarely in its European context. The conceptual framework is set out in an opening critique of modernisation which, while rejecting its linear implications, maintains its focus on the relationship between government, economy and society. Following a chronological introduction, a series of thematic chapters (covering topics such as finance and taxation, society, government and politics, culture, ideology, and economy) emphasise the ways in which Russia's international ambitions as an emerging great power provoked administrative and fiscal reforms with wide-ranging (and often unanticipated) social consequences. This thematic analysis allows Simon Dixon to demonstrate that the more the tsars tried to modernise their state, the more backward their empire became. A chronology and critical bibliography are also provided to allow students to discover more about this colourful period of Russian history.

Preface
Abbreviations
Chronology
1. Modernisation and Russian history
2. Imperial great power
3. Finance and taxation
4. Society
5. Government and politics
6. Culture
7. Ideology
8. Economy
Conclusion
Further reading.

Subject Areas: Early modern history: c 1450/1500 to c 1700 [HBLH], European history [HBJD]