Peasants in Russia from Serfdom to Stalin : Accommodation, Survival, Resistance

The peasantry accounted for the large majority of the Russian population during the Imperialist and Stalinist periods – it is, for the most part, how people lived. Peasants in Russia from Serfdom to Stalin provides a comprehensive, realistic examination of peasant life in Russia during both these eras and the legacy this left in the post-Soviet era.

The book paints a full picture of peasant involvement in commerce and local political life and, through Boris Gorshkov's original ecology paradigm for understanding peasant life, offers new perspectives on the Russian peasantry under serfdom and the emancipation. Incorporating recent scholarship, including Russian and non-Russian texts, along with classic studies, Gorshkov explores the complex interrelationships between the physical environment, peasant economic and social practices, culture, state policies and lord-peasant relations. He goes on to analyze peasant economic activities, including agriculture and livestock, social activities and the functioning of peasant social and political institutions within the context of these interrelationships. Further reading lists, study questions, tables, maps, primary source extracts and images are also included to support and enhance the text wherever possible.

Peasants in Russia from Serfdom to Stalin is the crucial survey of a key topic in modern Russian history for students and scholars alike.

“[An] excellent introductory read, often presented in a lively fashion, and demonstrating a remarkable ability to succinctly describe what were sometimes enormously complicated processes or developments … All in all, the portrait of daily life, micro-economic practices, family relations, and childhood, is vivid and persuasive. The author should be congratulated for undertaking such a bold enterprise and daring to challenge the standards of quibbling academics in order to reach a wider audience.” – Canadian Journal of History

“Primarily for students, but also catering to scholars and general readers, the work provides an up-to-date assessment of the Russian peasantry. The author’s depth of knowledge on the topic makes for an engaging and informative read … [A] broad, lively, and informed analysis of peasant life and should be recommended reading for students of Russian and Soviet history.” – The Russian Review

“Gorshkov’s approach, which cuts through older stereotypes, is a real strength … [This] book can profitably be assigned to students.” – American Historical Review

“The distinguishing feature of Gorshkov’s latest effort is its wide chronological and geographical focus … Experts and undergraduate readers alike will appreciate Gorshkov’s lucid analysis and the suggestions for further reading that accompany each chapter. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.” - CHOICE