Distinctions . A two-volume format, with the material on Late Imperial Russia appearing in both volumes. . Incorporates the latest scholarly findings and briefly mentions scholarly controversies. . A clear overview stressing main themes is offered at the beginning of each historical period and the beginning of each chapter. . Chapters are organized in a chronological/topical manner and written in a clear style interweaving narrative and analysis. . Offers greater treatment of such topics as nationalities issues, political opposition, women, eating and drinking, health and sickness, law, crime and punishments, and popular culture. . Much stronger coverage of social history than its competitors. . Extensive and current list of sources at the end of each chapter. A more general source list at the end of each volume includes references to media sources and internet sources. . Primary source inserts drawn from memoirs, letters, foreign observers accounts, and Soviet dissident literature are all included in each chapter."