Discuss the reign of Catherine II in both the domestic and foreign
policy areas. Was there an “Enlightenment” under Catherine? Why is
she termed the Great?
Discuss the major issues and developments in Russian foreign policy from
1725-1914. What were the outcomes of Russia’s policy in this long
era? Was it successful?
What were the Great Reforms and why were they necessary by the 1860s.
Were the reforms successful. Describe in detail the negative and
positive impact of Alexander II’s reforms.
Discuss Russia’s experiment with democracy in the period of 1905-1917.
What challenges did the Duma Monarchy face? Did democracy stand a
fighting chance in Russia during this period? Why or why not?
Why and how were the Bolsheviks able to take over the Russian government
in November 1917 and to win the Civil War by 1921? At what price?
What were the major policies associated with Stalinism and how did these
affect government, the economy and society by 1950. Be specific.
Describe the Soviet Union during the Brezhnev Era? What were the major
foreign and domestic concerns and challenges during this period?
Analyze the policies of Gorbachev and how they helped to lead to the
present state of affairs in the areas of the former Soviet Empire. Why
did the communist government collapse in 1991? What is the future
outlook in Russia today under the Putin government?
