The Use of History in Putin's Russia

There is much to like about Pearce's book, including the way he deftly and succinctly covers so much territory in easy-to-read prose, his analysis of the politics of history, and his coverage of the array of monuments and holidays that have appeared since the turn of this century. The standout sections of the book concern educational policies and the teaching of history in Putin's Russia. As Pearce notes, every schoolchild in Russia today has grown up entirely in the Putin era, making a study of the textbooks and assignments they have received an invaluable window into the uses of history. Pearce's interviews with history teachers and analysis of writing assignments are illuminating, for they reveal just how the state's goals are implemented on the ground but also the mixed view many teachers hold about the state's agenda.

Stephen M. Norris

Walter E. Havighurst Professor of Russian History

Director, Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies

Miami University