Publisher's description: With a long history spanning hundreds of years, Russia still claims the largest area in the world, and is among the largest countries in terms of population. It has been ruled by an astounding number of tsars and emperors, and has been called by several names during its history, among them the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the Tsarist Empire, and the Kievan Rus. It has been a country of volatile economic and political change in the last decade, and has consistently attracted the attention of the world. It is the site of the most dramatic historical turning points of this century: both its experiment with communism and the recent reactionary swing toward democracy. The Historical Dictionary of Russia will be useful to anyone interested in further researching the history and culture of this dynamic country. A detailed introduction and chronology puts the country's history in perspective, while maps, a selected bibliography of Russian history, and several lists of the Administrative Divisions of the Russian Republic as well as a listing of the principle bodies of water and mountain ranges help complete the geographical and political picture of the country. The dictionary also contains a list of acronyms to help the reader navigate Russian terminology and institutions, as well as references that allow the reader to find further information. An essential reference for those who wish to be knowledgeable of the future possibilities of this dynamic country.