From the Tsars to Gorbachev

This chapter examines the historical trajectory of contemporary Russian society and politics since the early 20^th century. The country’s socio-political and socio-economic circumstances have seen a seismic shift over more than a century

, from escaping the clutches of the tsarist monarchy to becoming the torch bearer for communism globally, and from the Cold War to the Russian Federation that exists today. This chapter discusses some of these transitions to provide the background landscape to the rise of authoritarian leaders in Russian politics.