One of The Economist's Best Books of the YearA gripping; meticulously researched account of Lenin’s fateful 1917 rail journey from Zurich to Petrograd; where he ignited the Russian Revolution and forever changed the worldIn April 1917; as the Russian Tsar Nicholas II’s abdication sent shockwaves across war-torn Europe; the future leader of the Bolshevik revolution Vladimir Lenin was far away; exiled in Zurich. When the news reached him; Lenin immediately resolved to return to Petrograd and lead the revolt. But to get there; he would have to cross Germany; which meant accepting help from the deadliest of Russia’s adversaries. Millions of Russians at home were suffering as a result of German aggression; and to accept German aid―or even safe passage―would be to betray his homeland. Germany; for its part; saw an opportunity to further destabilize Russia by allowing Lenin and his small group of revolutionaries to return. Now; in Lenin on the Train; drawing on a dazzling array of sources and never-before-seen archival material; renowned historian Catherine Merridale provides a riveting; nuanced account of this enormously consequential journey―the train ride that changed the world―as well as the underground conspiracy and subterfuge that went into making it happen. Writing with the same insight and formidable intelligence that distinguished her earlier works; she brings to life a world of counter-espionage and intrigue; wartime desperation; illicit finance; and misguided utopianism. When Lenin arrived in Petrograd’s now-famous Finland Station; he delivered an explosive address to the impassioned crowds. Simple and extreme; the text of this speech has been compared to such momentous documents as Constantine’s edict of Milan and Martin Luther’s ninety-five theses. It was the moment when the Russian revolution became Soviet; the genesis of a system of tyranny and faith that changed the course of Russia’s history forever and transformed the international political climate.
#329606 in Books Quercus 2016-01-05 2016-01-05Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.25 x .88 x 5.50l; .0 #File Name: 1623656672384 pagesQuercus
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Amazing stories of a war dog.By Meema ZBought this for a friend of mine who is a avid reader. He likes to read about war stories and I have sent him many books on Pearl Harbor; Guam; Wake Island; the Philippines. Even books on Leaders during the wars. I seen this book Judy about a war dog and thought it to be a nice change of pace. He spoke to me about the book and said how incredible this dog is; he could not believe it. He said he loved reading it; actually couldn't put it down. Would recommend buying it.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. It's not only a wonderful story of a dog's loyalty and courage but a ...By Mole End Farm denizenAn engrossing true story. It's not only a wonderful story of a dog's loyalty and courage but a moving tribute to the men who protected and loved the dog; in spite of the brutal conditions under which they were struggling to survive.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy bright sparkAmazing story of a faithful dogLoved it!!
