Lenin

Lenin was an enigmatic leader, a resolute and audacious politician who had an immense impact on twentieth century history. This biography is a fascinating and reliable introduction to one of the key figures of the post-Tsarist Russia and the revolution.

'[Christpher Read has] produced a very readable, convincing portrait of a human, if not always humane Lenin...For suggestive answers to these and many more major issues of the Russian Revolution, Read's biography deserves a long shelf life.' - European Historical Quarterly

Autorentext

CHRISTOPHER READ is Reader in History at Warwick University, UK.

Klappentext

From a highly distinguished author on the subject, this biography is an excellent scholarly introduction to one of the key figures of the Russian Revolution and post-Tsarist Russia. Not only does it make use of archive material made newly available in the glasnost and post-Soviet eras, it re-examines traditional sources as well, providing an original interpretation of Lenin's life and historical importance. Focal points of this study are: Lenin's revolutionary ascetic personality how he exploited culture, education and propaganda his relationship to Marxism his changing class analysis of Russia his 'populist' instincts. A prominent figure at the forefront of debates on the Russina revolution, Read makes sure that Lenin remains in his place as a highly influential and significant figure of the recent past.

Inhalt

Contents Introduction 1. Choosing Revolution 2. Laying the Foundations of Leninism (1896-1902) 3. Constructing Leninism 4. Imperialism, War and Revolution 5. From the Finland Station to the Winter Palace 6. From Classroom to Laboratory - Early Experiments 7. Revolutionary War 8. Re-evaluation, Succession and Testament Conclusion. Further Reading Timeline