National Self-images and Regional Identities in Russia

Abstract

The dissolution of the Soviet Union sent shock-waves around the world. In its wake some of the most dramatic effects continue to be felt by a Russia in search of a new sense of civic national identity. This book explores the nexus between national identity and national self-images in contemporary Russia. Using in-depth interviews with Russian politicians, it explores how political division, the intense search for internal threats to national security, and centre-periphery tensions in light of the upsurge of regional identities has hampered the successful construction of overarching civic national identities. The book provides fascinating insights into the complicated Russian political scene, and provides a deeper understanding of the sentiments and societal milieu which brought Vladimir Putin to presidential power. (Less)