Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/russian-history-lenin-putin
### Course Review: Russian History: from Lenin to Putin In an era where global politics and cultural consciousness are intertwined, understanding the socio-political legacy of Russia is more important than ever. Coursera offers an insightful course titled **"Russian History: from Lenin to Putin,"** presented by the esteemed Peter Kenez, Professor Emeritus at UC Santa Cruz. This course takes learners on a captivating journey through the complex landscape of modern Russian history, outlining its most significant events and influential figures. #### Overview From the revolutionary fervor of Vladimir Lenin through the bureaucratic challenges faced by subsequent leaders, this course provides a comprehensive examination of the events that have shaped contemporary Russia. The instructor, Peter Kenez, leverages his extensive knowledge and teaching experience to explain intricate historical dynamics in an engaging and accessible manner. His passion for the subject shines through, making the course an enriching experience for students at all levels of familiarity with Russian history. #### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured into three major segments, each focusing on a crucial period in Russian history: **1. The 9th Century to the 1920s:** - This unit covers the formative years of Russian history, beginning with the establishment of the Kievan Rus and tracing the evolution of Russian society through the ages. It delves into the impact of the Mongol invasion, the rise of the Tsardom, and the complex socio-political landscape leading to the Bolshevik Revolution. This section serves as the foundation upon which the subsequent history of modern Russia is built. **2. The Great Patriotic War: Before and After:** - Kenez provides a nuanced analysis of the Soviet experience during World War II, often referred to as the Great Patriotic War in Russia. This segment explores the immense human and material costs of the war, as well as the profound changes it brought to Soviet society. The aftermath of the war, including the onset of the Cold War, is also explored, helping students understand Russia's part in global politics during the latter half of the 20th century. **3. Reform, Stagnation, Collapse, Rebirth?:** - The final unit addresses the tumultuous years post-Soviet Union, examining the political and economic reforms under leaders such as Boris Yeltsin and the subsequent rise of Vladimir Putin. Kenez critically evaluates the complexities of modern Russian identity, governance, and the revival of its influence on the global stage. This discussion is particularly relevant in today’s geopolitical context, as it sheds light on Putin’s policies and their implications for international relations. #### Recommendations This course is highly recommended for anyone interested in grasping the complexities of Russian history, whether you're a student, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious individual seeking to understand contemporary issues. **Here are a few reasons why you should consider enrolling:** - **Expert Instruction:** Peter Kenez’s expertise provides unmatched insight into the nuances of each historical period. - **Comprehensive Content:** The course is well-structured, making even the most complex topics digestible. - **Rich Resources:** It offers supplementary reading materials and resources that enhance the learning experience, along with engaging multimedia content. - **Flexible Learning:** The Coursera platform allows you to learn at your own pace, making it suitable for individuals with varying schedules. - **Cultural Context:** Beyond just dates and events, this course explores the cultural, social, and economic dimensions of Russian history. In conclusion, **"Russian History: from Lenin to Putin"** on Coursera is an exceptional opportunity for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Russia’s historical narrative. The course not only equips you with knowledge about key figures and events but also encourages critical thinking about the implications of history on present-day politics and society. Filling the gaps in understanding of this pivotal nation will undoubtedly enrich your perspective on global affairs today. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this enlightening journey!
The 9th Century to the 1920s
The Great Patriotic War: Before and AfterReform, Stagnation, Collapse, Rebirth?In this course, Peter Kenez, Professor Emeritus at UC Santa Cruz, explains the events of modern Russian history and introduces its most significant actors—from Vladimir Lenin to Vladimir Putin.
Excellent ,my first Corsera series and I loved learning about this. I wish there was a continuation on what is going on now with the Ukraine and Russia situation.
This was a great course i really enjoyed the lectures i would forget i was stuck at home and felt as if i was back in a lecture hall! Would recommend to anyone to take!
Absolutely superb! As a lover of Russian histoty I found this both educational and facinating, absolutely delighted to have taken and passed the course.
I found that course had a central theme, the incompatibility of the Communist structures with an increase in the standard of living, that was well documented from the time of Lenin to that of Putin.
I recommend anyone interested in this period of Russian history to take the course. Professor Kenez is an authority on the period and delivers an excellent overview of the time.