Looks at the failed coup attempt and the other events that led to the breakdown of the totalitarian regime and the birth of a new optimism
James Hadley Billington Books
June 1, 1929 – November 20, 2018
James Hadley Billington was a distinguished American academic and author who taught history at Harvard and Princeton. He served as the 13th Librarian of Congress, significantly shaping America's cultural institutions over his extensive tenure. His academic work delved into historical narratives, and his legacy is cemented by his impactful leadership in the cultural sphere.
The Face of Russia
- 296 pages
- 11 hours of reading
The book explores the aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, focusing on the potential for Russian creativity to inform contemporary problem-solving. It examines whether Russia can develop a unique democratic model inspired by Western ideals or if it will revert to its historical authoritarian tendencies. The narrative contrasts insights from humanistic studies with the analytical approaches of political scientists, raising questions about the future of governance in Russia and the challenges of sustaining accountable leadership.
Mikhailovsky and Russian Populism
- 246 pages
- 9 hours of reading