The largest country in the world and one of the most geographically diverse, Russia has undergone a dramatic transformation since the disintegration of the U.S.S.R. Today, Russia continues to maintain its rich traditions while making the difficult transition from communism to democracy. From monarchy to communism to capitalism, from tsars to reindeer herders, and from economic setbacks to the achievements of Russian science and technology, this book presents the struggles and triumphs of a remarkable society.