This companion comprises 28 essays by international scholars offering an analytical overview of the development of Russian history from the earliest Slavs through to the present day.

• Includes essays by both prominent and emerging scholars from Russia, Great Britain, the US, and Canada
• Analyzes the entire sweep of Russian history from debates over how to identify the earliest Slavs, through the Yeltsin Era, and future prospects for post-Soviet Russia
• Offers an extensive review of the medieval period, religion, culture, and the experiences of ordinary people
• Offers a balanced review of both traditional and cutting-edge topics, demonstrating the range and dynamism of the field

Abbott Gleason is Keeney Professor of History Emeritus at Brown University, where he has served as Chairman of the History Department and Director of the Watson Institute from 2000-2001. In 1995 he served as president of the American Association for the Advancement of Slavic Studies. In 1980-1982 he was Director of the Kennan Institute for Advanced Russian Studies at the Woodrow Wilson Center in Washington DC and was subsequently chosen Chairman of its Board Advisers.