South Caucasus: Then and Now

Uschan, Michael V. The South Caucasus: Then and Now. 2015. 80p. ISBN 978-1-60152-650-2. Available at 947.508 USC on the library shelves.

Squeezed between two giant historical forces, Russian expansionism and Islam, the South Caucasus has been plagued by conflicts, occupation, and poor management for most of its history.

The Republics of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan are located between Russia to the north and Turkey and Iran to the south. Each of these countries have influenced the development of these small states, but nothing more so than the Soviet Union, which controlled these countries for more than seventy years.

This book discusses the histories of these former Soviet Republics, from their settlement through their short-lived independence from Tsarist Russia to their newfound freedom following the breakup of the Soviet Union. The Political and economic life of South Caucasus is explored, along with social customs and culture. Finally, this region’s future is also considered.

This is a great read to learn more about a region of the world most Americans are unfamiliar with. Other books in this series include Baltic States, Central Asian States, Russian Federation, and Ukraine.