The Story of Russia

This history traces Russia from its geographical scope and early records through the Varangian influence, Christianization under Vladimir, and the Kievan period under Yaroslav, into the Mongol domination and the rise of Moscow. It follows the consolidation of autocratic rule under Ivan III and Ivan IV, the Time of Troubles and the Romanov succession, then examines reform and westernizing efforts under Peter the Great and territorial expansion under Catherine. Later chapters cover Napoleonic wars, emancipation and reforms under Alexander II, the growth of revolutionary movements, industrial and Asiatic expansion, and the political methods that shaped Russia up to the early twentieth century.