Russia Under the Old Regime

Download or read book Russia Under the Old Regime written by Richard Pipes and published by . This book was released on 1992 with total page 392 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The author traces with compelling detail the evolution of the Russian state, where the Tsar claimed to own the land and its inhabitants as if they were his own personal property. Professor Pipes analyzes the political behavior of Russia's peasantry, nobility and bourgeoisie as well as its clergy, showing why none of them could limit the absolute power of the state. He discusses how the intelligentsia challenged the Tsars' power, leading to increased repression and Russia's development as a bureaucratic police state. This sweeping epic brings Russia's turbulent history to life and helps us better understand the roots of modern Russia.