Description

pp. 456, ” The “small peoples” are the 26 indigenous ethnic groups of the Arctic tundra and subarctic taiga whose traditions lie in hunting, trapping, fishing, and reindeer herding. Historian Slezkine studies the relationships between these groups and the Russians, who entered their land in the 11th century, colonized it, and transformed it over the centuries thereafter. By examining these circumpolar peoples through Russian historical documents and literary accounts, Slezkine brings out images that become reflections of the Russians themselves. He is interested in both the political and intellectual nature of the encounter and seeks to reveal the importance of the complexities of this relationship through history. The study is thoroughly researched and well written for the scholar in the field or the informed reader.”