Military Affairs in Russia's Great War and Revolution, 1914-22

Main Themes and Topics

Military Affairs in Russia's Great War and Revolution, 1914-22 by Laurie Stoff explores the multifaceted human experiences during Russia's involvement in World War I and the subsequent Civil War. Instead of limiting its focus to traditional military operational narratives, the book delves into a broader interpretation of what constitutes a military front. The narrative extends from the trenches to diverse settings like POW camps and medical facilities, emphasizing the vital role humans played in shaping military history. The work highlights how Russia's experience differed from Western Europe, accounting for factors such as mobility, nationality, religion, gender, and unprecedented casualties. These elements are woven into the fabric of the Russian military landscape and are analyzed through the lens of personal and collective human experiences.

Brief Summary

This scholarly work is an extensive examination of the military history in Russia during the Great War and the Revolution period of 1914-1922. Laurie Stoff eschews the typical approach of focusing solely on battle strategies and operations. Instead, the book underscores the importance of human elements, examining how soldiers' lives and diverse societal factors contributed to the military narrative. The front is not merely the site of combat but a varied array of experiences that include logistical and support roles, providing a holistic view of the military impact during this tumultuous time.