Fuel and Power

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What to expect

This is a very timely study of Russia's development into a global energy power from the Russian Revolution to the present day. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, Russia emerged not only as a key producer but also as one of the world's leading exporters of oil. Russia's transformation into a modern global power was connected to its ability to make use of its vast natural resources and produce energy in increasing quantities. While the development of Russia's energy industry went hand in hand with a profound sociopolitical and economic transformation, the book also tells the story of international cooperation and competition, transnational exchanges, and transborder interdependencies. Through energy exports, Russia shaped global energy flows and connections; at the same time, the growth of international trade impacted the views and decisions of Russian leaders, affecting the fabric of the country's foreign relations and, ultimately, the course of Russian history.

User Reviews

Book 5.0
Narration 5.0
5.0
5.0
An excellent overview of a huge swath of Russian (and, necessarily, energy) history. The author reveals the central role oil and gas has played in Russia, while also being careful not to overstate its importance. A nice mix of detail without getting bogged down too much in a single time region.

I especially appreciated how the author pushes back on the simplistic narrative of a u201cisolationistu201d Soviet Union, and instead shows how the Soviets came to rely more and more on oil and gas exports, despite a strong desire to become an exporter of manufactured goods.

That said, to cover decades so quickly, the author of course skips some details, which might be supplemented with other books.
davidnmora 16/05/2025

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