Russian history is a vast and fascinating subject, with many great books that explore its rich and complex past.
From the earliest days of the Russian Empire to the fall of the Soviet Union and beyond, Russian history offers a wealth of fascinating stories and important lessons.
Table of Contents
Top Russian History Books
Here are our top 11 picks for the best Russian history books of all time:
1. “The Gulag Archipelago” by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn
This powerful and harrowing work of non-fiction exposes the brutal reality of the Soviet gulag system, and is considered one of the most important books of the 20th century [1].
2. “Nicholas and Alexandra” by Robert K. Massie
This Pulitzer Prize-winning biography tells the story of the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, and his family, and is considered one of the greatest works of biographical history.
3. “A People’s Tragedy: The Russian Revolution 1891-1924” by Orlando Figes
This sweeping and comprehensive history explores the causes and consequences of the Russian Revolution, and is considered one of the definitive works on the subject.
Related post: Top Books by Russian Authors
4. “The Romanovs: 1613-1918” by Simon Sebag Montefiore
This bestselling history tells the story of the rise and fall of the Romanov dynasty, and is a fascinating exploration of Russian history and politics.
5. “The Crimean War: A History” by Orlando Figes
This Pulitzer Prize-winning history is a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the Crimean War, and is considered one of the definitive works on the subject.
6. “Lenin’s Tomb: The Last Days of the Soviet Empire” by David Remnick
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book is a gripping account of the fall of the Soviet Union, told through the eyes of the people who lived through it.
7. “The Time of Troubles: A History of the Deeper Disturbances in Russia 1604-1618” by Simon Dixon
This detailed and scholarly history explores the tumultuous period known as the Time of Troubles, and offers a unique perspective on Russian history.
8. “The Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union” by Sean McMeekin
This engaging and thought-provoking history explores the rise and fall of the Soviet Union, and offers a fresh perspective on this important period of Russian history.
9. “The Russian Revolution: A New History” by Sean McMeekin
This comprehensive and engaging history of the Russian Revolution offers a fresh perspective on the events that shaped modern Russia.
10. “The Court of the Red Tsar” by Simon Sebag Montefiore
This bestselling history tells the story of the last days of the Romanov dynasty, and is a gripping exploration of the politics and personalities of the time.
11. “The Russian Revolution: A Very Short Introduction” by S.A. Smith
This concise and accessible introduction to the Russian Revolution offers a clear and engaging overview of the key events and personalities of the time.
Also Read: Greatest Russian Authors
The Bottom Line
These Russian history books offer a wide range of perspectives on the country’s past, and are essential reading for anyone interested in learning more about Russian history and culture.
Whether you’re a history buff or just starting to explore this fascinating subject, these books are sure to provide insight and enlightenment.
