Almost twenty years after the Soviet Unions' end what are we to make of its existence? Was it a heroic experiment an unmitigated disaster or a viable if flawed response to the modern world? Taking a fresh approach to the study of the Soviet Union this Very Short Introduction blends political history with an investigation into the society & culture at the time Stephen Lovell examines aspects of patriotism political violence poverty & ideology; & provides answers to some of the big questions about the Soviet experience ABOUT THE SERIES The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable