The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia by Masha Gessen is a non-fiction book that explores the rise of authoritarianism in Russia under the rule of Vladimir Putin. The book delves into the history of the country and how it has evolved from the fall of the Soviet Union to the present day. Gessen’s book is an in-depth analysis of the political, social, and cultural changes that have taken place in Russia over the past few decades, and how these changes have led to the rise of a new form of totalitarianism.
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1: The End of the Soviet Union
The first chapter of The Future Is History sets the stage for the rest of the book by providing a brief overview of the history of Russia from the fall of the Soviet Union to the rise of Vladimir Putin. Gessen describes how the end of the Soviet Union was marked by a sense of hope and optimism among many Russians, who saw the end of communism as an opportunity to build a new, democratic society. However, this hope was short-lived, as the country soon descended into chaos and corruption, with many of the same political elites who had ruled under communism continuing to wield power.
Chapter 2: The Rise of Putin
In the second chapter, Gessen examines the rise of Vladimir Putin to power. Putin had been a member of the KGB during the Soviet era, and he used his connections to rise through the ranks of the Russian government. He first came to prominence in the late 1990s, when he was appointed as the head of the FSB, the successor agency to the KGB. Putin quickly consolidated power, and in 2000 he was elected president of Russia. Gessen argues that Putin’s rise to power was facilitated by a combination of factors, including the weakness of the Russian state, the corruption of the political elite, and the desire of many Russians for a strong leader who could restore order to the country.
Chapter 3: The New Authoritarianism
In the third chapter, Gessen examines the nature of the authoritarianism that has emerged in Russia under Putin’s rule. She argues that this new form of authoritarianism is different from the old Soviet-era totalitarianism, in that it is more subtle and sophisticated. Putin has sought to maintain control over the country by using a combination of propaganda, censorship, and repression. At the same time, he has sought to maintain a facade of democracy, by holding regular elections and allowing some degree of opposition activity. Gessen argues that this new form of authoritarianism is more effective than the old Soviet-era totalitarianism, because it is better able to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain control over a population that is increasingly disillusioned with the government.
Chapter 4: The New Nationalism
In the fourth chapter, Gessen examines the rise of nationalism in Russia under Putin’s rule. She argues that this new nationalism is a tool that the government uses to maintain control over the population, by fostering a sense of pride in Russian history and culture. At the same time, however, this nationalism is also used to justify the government’s actions, including its aggression towards other countries and its crackdown on opposition activity. Gessen argues that this new nationalism is dangerous, because it is used to justify the government’s repressive actions and to demonize opposition groups.
Chapter 5: The New Oligarchy
In the fifth chapter, Gessen examines the role of the oligarchy in Russia under Putin’s rule. She argues that the oligarchy has played a key role in maintaining the government’s power, by using their wealth and influence to support the government and to suppress opposition activity. At the same time, however, the oligarchy has also become a target of government repression, as Putin has sought to consolidate his power and to eliminate potential rivals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Future Is History is a powerful and thought-provoking book that provides a detailed analysis of the rise of authoritarianism in Russia under Putin’s rule. Gessen’s book is an important contribution to our understanding of the history and politics of Russia, and it is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the future of democracy in that country. Ultimately, Gessen’s book is a warning about the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of standing up against it. It is a reminder that the future is not predetermined, and that we have the power to shape it through our actions and our beliefs.
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