Description
Book SynopsisThis authoritative study examines Russia''s four key succession crises: after Stalin''s death, throughout Khrushchev''s primacy, during the implosion of the USSR, and with Putin''s ascent to power. The distinguished authors argue that the common denominator has been the absence of a transparent, non-arbitrary, and lawful mechanism for the transfer of political power. Consequently, contenders for leadership have engaged in vicious power struggles followed by pseudo-legitimation of the victor. As Moscow reemerges as a major international actor, its unpredictability domestically triggers after shocks well beyond Russia''s borders. Drawing on newly available primary sources, this book provides essential insights for practitioners and students of policy alike.
Trade ReviewAs the four case studies in this excellent volume demonstrate, a key obstacle to Russia's political development has been and remains a struggle for power among Soviet and now Russian political elites that has subverted the development of stable and effective state institutions and resulted in the rule of men not the rule of law. . . . While this book is fascinating 'inside baseball' for a student of Russian politics, it also raises larger questions for thought about the underlying dynamics of Russia's political development. * The Russian Review *
Table of Contents1 Abbreviations 2 Foreword 3 Preface 4 Acknowledgments 5 Part 1:Sic Transit: Stalin's Heirs 6 Part 2: Khrushchev: An Era of Coups 7 Part 3: One of a Kind: The Gorbachev to Yel'tsin Transition 8 Part 4: The 18th Brumaire of Vladimir Putin 9 Epilogue
