The full and fascinating story of Russia, from its founding in the waning years of the tenth century to its resurgence of wealth and power in the early years of the twenty-first, skillfully tracing the conundrums of modern Russia to their roots in its troubled past. Covering politics, music, literature and art, the author explores the myths Russians have created from their history and explains the nation's seemingly split personality.--from cover, p. [2]

Originally published: London : BBC Books, 2011.

Kiev and proto-democracy -- Expansion and empire -- Rise of revolution -- Dictatorship (of the people?) -- Democrats with cold feet.