Mark Sandle is Principal Lecturer in Russian and Soviet History at De Montfort University, UK.

'A perceptive study of value not only to those interested in recent Russian history but also to those who work on historiography and historical method, because Sandle demonstrates the complexities involved in the construction of historical reputation.' Jeremy Black, The Historical Association 'This book is a well-organised and useful guide to understanding the conflicts and ambiguities of his era.' Harold Shukman, Time Higher Education Supplement