Examines multiple perspectives on the history of the Russian Revolution and the Soviet Union, and on how that history has influenced today's Russia. Focuses on how Russian culture and history have shaped, and been shaped by, Russia's interaction with other nations. Paying particular attention to Russia's transformation since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the course analyses how the turbulent evolution of Russian culture, political, and economic institutions could affect the future of Europe and the world. Fulfills general education requirements in history and intercultural knowledge. [ 3 credits ]