Rudov G.A. A Review for «Upon the Ruins of a Great Country», A Monography by A. D. Shutov (Moscow, «Veche» Publishing House, 2004, 27 p. p.)

Abstract: Professor A. D. Shutov’s book is dedicated to a perpetually contested topic in historical science, by which historians and politicians of various ideologies consistently clash. The discovery of the deeper reasons for Soviet Union’s dissolution, and the study of ways that lead to the revival of a country, define the scientific importance of this work. The research of historical processes is impartial and fundamental, as it lacks diplomatic understatements and politically correct condescension that statesmen and politicians of all ranks are notorious for. As it appears, the book lacks speculation, just the truth, and by shedding light on this truth, the author pursues the only goal — to study ways to revive of our Fatherland, to eliminate complications and to improve the lives of the people. Moreover, A. D. Shutov’s book is one of the first attempts at comprehensive analysis of the work of CIS as an international regional organization. Based on a broad circle of sources and literature, including archive materials, the monography is quite encyclopedic in its content, and presents a profound scientific, theoretical and practical interest, and may serve as a study guide on history and political science.

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