Bandits, Gangsters and the Mafia

Exploring the tumultuous transition from communism to capitalism in Russia during the 1990s, the book delves into the rise of oligarchs and their influence over the government, particularly under President Yeltsin. McCauley illustrates how violence and corruption became intertwined with politics, leading to widespread misery for the populace while a select few amassed wealth. As Putin's regime emerges, the author provides critical insights into the factors that shaped Russia's trajectory, making this work a vital resource for understanding post-Soviet crime and governance.