The Making of Russian Absolutism 1613-1801 [Hardcover]

Revised and expanded, the second edition of this fascinating study surveys the first two centuries of Romanov rule from the foundation of the dynasty by Michael Romanov in 1613 to the accession of Alexander I in 1801.

The central theme of the book is the growth of absolutism in Russia throughout these years, and it traces in detail how the Russian variety of what was a contemporary European phenomenon came fully into being.
Preface to the first edition.  Preface to the second edition.  List of maps.  1. Introduction - Reconstruction under the Romanovs: Michael 1613-1645.  2. New foundations: from Alexis to the Regent Sophie, 1645-1689.  3. The new structure: Peter the Great, 1689-1725.  4. Renovation and the extension: Anna, Elizabeth and others, 1725-1761.
5. Enlightened completion: Peter III and Catherine the Great, 1761-1796.  6. Improvement or deterioration?: Paul (1796-1801) and sons.  Conclusion.  Select bibliography.  Maps.  Index