Bloomsbury - A History of the Urals: Russia's Crucible Book

Explore the vital role of the Ural Mountains in Russian history with this comprehensive study by Paul Dukes. While many view the Urals simply as the boundary between Europe and Asia, this work reveals the region as a major center for the Russian defense industry and state power. As the first English-language book to fully examine this subject, it provides a necessary perspective that moves beyond Moscow-centric views. The text traces the development of the region through several transformative eras, including the Tsarist, Soviet, and post-Soviet periods. By examining how the Urals contributed to the strength of the state over time, readers gain a deeper understanding of Russia's industrial and political evolution. This book provides context for more recent history by including chapters on the earlier years of the region. It is an essential resource for students, historians, and anyone interested in the complex history of Russia's industrial heartland and its lasting impact on the nation.