Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book attempts to rise to Shotwell's challenge. It summarises overall approach by saying that poverty, policy options and choices, and social faultlines are the threads that connect the narrative and constitute the underlying analytic framework. It explains the disillusionment that followed the conservative policies of the state, such as the restrictions imposed on public meetings and the closure of co-operatives. Imperial Russia boasted impressive reserves of manpower, and its territorial extent gave it access to abundant raw materials. The stimulating body of work focuses on state practice rather than political ideology. Recent work has drawn attention to the professionalism with which the tsarist General Staff practised military manoeuvres, understood the need for military intelligence and planned the details of mobilisation. Particular attention focused upon the corrosive division between the state and 'educated society', embracing progressive elements among the middle and upper classes.