Moscow in the 1960s was the other side of the Iron Curtain: mysterious; exotic; even dangerous. In 1966 the historian Sheila Fitzpatrick traveled to Moscow to research in the Soviet archives. This was the era of Brezhnev; of a possible “thaw†in the Cold War; when the Soviets couldn’t decide either to thaw out properly or re-freeze. Moscow; the world capital of socialism; was renowned for its drabness. The buses were overcrowded; there were endemic shortages and endless queues. This was also the age of regular spying scandals and tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions; and it was no surprise that visiting students were subject to intense scrutiny by the KGB. Many of Fitzpatrick’s friends were involved in espionage activities–and indeed others were accused of being spies or kept under close surveillance. In this book; Sheila Fitzpatrick provides a unique insight into everyday life in Soviet Moscow. Full of drama and colorful characters; her remarkable memoir highlights the dangers and drudgery faced by Westerners living under communism.
#506066 in Books 2015-01-06 2015-01-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.30 x 2.90 x 5.80l; .81 #File Name: 17816856061648 pages
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Marvelous insight into the man and his revolutionary context. ...By CustomerMarvelous insight into the man and his revolutionary context. The book is detailed and in depth. It is worth it. I learned about the Russian revolution and the post Lenin struggle between Trotsky and Stalin in a way that gave me insight into contemporary Russia. Long read but worth it.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Amazing; sweepingBy Jean MillsAmazing; sweeping; 3-volume extravaganza of Trotsky's life. The writing also carries you along. Also; makes a good doorstop once you're done reading it. It's over 1;000 pages.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. An amazing personBy Sheilah SackettA must read to understand Russia as the Tsars exit and the change of government occurs!
