"What was ordinary life like in the Soviet police state? The phrase "daily life" implies an orderly routine in a stable environment. However, many millions of Soviet citizens experienced repeated upheavals in their everyday lives. Soviet citizens were forced to endure revolution, civil war, two World Wars, forced collectivization, famine, massive deportations, mass terror campaigns perpetrated against them by their own leaders, and chronic material deprivations. Even the perpetrators often became victims. Many millions, of all ages, nationalities, and walks of life, did not survive these experiences. At the same time, millions managed to live tranquilly, work in factories, farm the fields, serve in the military, and even find joy in their existence." "Structured topically, this volume begins with a historical introduction to the Soviet period (1917-1991) and a timeline. The volume has two maps, including a map of ethnic groups and languages, and over 30 photographs. A glossary, a list of student-friendly books and multimedia sources for classroom and/or individual use, and an index round out the work."--BOOK JACKET.